GOMBAK: Asean countries have expressed disagreement with the United States’ decision to impose reciprocal tariffs, and the regional bloc is working on a unified stance in response, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
According to Anwar, this shared sentiment was conveyed during the Special Asean Economic Ministers’ Meeting and the 12th Asean Finance Ministers’ and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting held on Thursday.
“By consensus, we disagreed with the tariffs.
“Therefore, we are adopting a common approach, and the Asean ministers have requested that I reach out to all Asean leaders for a common approach,” he told reporters after Friday prayers at Masjid Batu 6 here yesterday.
He also commended the organisation of the two high-level Asean meetings and extended his appreciation to those involved in the preparations.
“I thank everyone for organising them. Next week, we will welcome China’s President (Xi Jinping), and I hope it will be a lively occasion,” he added.
In a separate Facebook post yesterday, Anwar shared that he had discussed the US tariffs with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.
“I reaffirmed Malaysia’s and Asean’s commitment to prioritising negotiations, and emphasised the importance of Asean unity in coordinating our response.”
“Malaysia and Asean will continue to discuss and engage in dialogue with New Zealand and other key trading partners to develop an inclusive strategy to overcome these challenges for the benefit of regional economic prosperity,” he said.
Malaysia was hit with a 24% reciprocal import tariff by the United States, effective April 9.
However, just hours after the tariff came into force, US President Donald Trump made a surprise U-turn, announcing a temporary 10% tariff for 90 days for over 75 countries that have shown a willingness to negotiate with Washington.
Talks during this 90-day window will determine whether tariffs on Malaysia will be lifted, maintained at 24%, or adjusted to a lower rate.
The outcome will depend on Malaysia’s willingness to reduce or eliminate tariffs and non-tariff barriers in ways that benefit US businesses.
