Reducing trade deficit among four key areas in Malaysia US tariff talks

PETALING JAYA – Malaysia has reiterated that it is ready to work with the United States to resolve concerns over reciprocal tariffs.

This follows a high-level visit to the United States led by Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz.

In meetings with US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in Washington, DC, Datuk Seri Zafrul emphasised Malaysia’s commitment to reaching fair and mutually agreeable solutions to the issue, which stems from measures announced by the Trump administration.

“These first meetings with Lutnick and Greer are a step in the right direction,” he said in a Facebook post on April 25.

“We will continue to keep the momentum by following up urgently on some of the key issues discussed within the 90-day period since the pause started.

“Malaysia also stressed that all communication lines remain open, and we will continue to work towards an amicable solution to this reciprocal tariff matter,” he wrote.

In a statement, the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) said the discussion between the two countries focused on four key areas – reducing the trade deficit, addressing non-tariff barriers, strengthening technological safeguards and security, and exploring a potential bilateral trade agreement.

The statement also added that Malaysia welcomed the recent 90-day pause on the proposed tariffs, viewing it as an opportunity for constructive engagement.

“Miti stressed that Malaysia does not intend to take retaliatory action and instead remains open to dialogue that benefits both countries,” it said.

“Malaysia has publicly stated that it will not take retaliatory action against the tariffs but stands ready to collaborate on mutually agreeable outcomes to the concerns raised by the Trump administration.”

Miti also highlighted the strong bilateral economic ties between both nations, noting that US companies have made significant contributions to the Malaysian economy