GOMBAK: Asean countries have expressed disagreement with the United States' decision to impose reciprocal tariffs, and the regional grouping is working towards a common stance on the issue, according to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Anwar noted that this sentiment was shared during the Special Asean Economic Ministers’ Meeting and the 12th Asean Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting last week.
"In consensus, we disagreed with the tariffs. So, we are taking a common approach, and they (Asean ministers) have also asked that I contact all Asean leaders for a common approach," said Anwar when met by reporters after Friday prayers at Masjid Batu 6 in Gombak on April 11.
Anwar also mentioned that the two high-level Asean meetings were well-organised, and he extended his gratitude to everyone involved in the preparations.
"I thank everyone for organising that, and next week, we will welcome China’s President (Xi Jinping), and I hope it will be a lively occasion," added Anwar.
Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz stated that Malaysia, as Asean chair this year, has requested, through its Foreign Ministry, a special US-Asean summit to discuss the tariff issue.
Tengku Zafrul mentioned that all Asean leaders have agreed to travel to the US to meet with President Donald Trump during the summit.
He reiterated that Asean does not support any retaliatory tariff actions and aims to continue engaging with Washington.
Earlier, Malaysia was subjected to a 24% reciprocal import tariff by the United States, effective April 9.
However, within hours of implementation, President Donald Trump announced a surprise U-turn, reducing the tariff to 10% for 90 days for over 75 countries willing to negotiate with the US.
Negotiations during the 90-day pause will determine whether tariffs on Malaysia will be lifted, maintained at 24%, or reduced.
The outcome will depend on Malaysia’s willingness to reduce or eliminate tariffs and non-tariff barriers, benefiting US businesses.
