KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 — Discussions between Malaysia and the United States over reciprocal tariffs have progressed smoothly, with many issues being resolved and some requiring further scrutiny, especially those related to the country’s strategic sectors.
Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz said this was discussed during his meeting with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer at the 31st Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) Ministerial Meeting on Trade held in Jeju, South Korea.
The Malaysian delegation will continue negotiations in Washington from May 28 to 30, led by Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry deputy secretary-general (trade) Mastura Ahmad Mustafa, while Tengku Zafrul is scheduled to visit the US in June for further talks.
“We understand that talks between chief negotiators on both sides have been smooth.
“We have signed a non-disclosure agreement and cannot discuss the details of the negotiations, but the issues typically relate to sectors that are important to our country,” he told Bernama.
Tengku Zafrul said a key sector discussed was semiconductors, which are crucial not only to Malaysia but also to the US’ industrial needs.
He added that his discussions with the US also touched on strengthening economic cooperation among Apec members.
Malaysia also participated in the Asean Caucus Meeting, which involved seven Apec members, to coordinate regional positions on trade issues and economic cooperation.
— Bernama
