Anwar: MITI Evaluating Impact of US Tariffs on Malaysia, Response to Prioritize National Interests

KUALA LUMPUR, April 5 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that the latest tariff measures imposed by the United States on Malaysia are currently being evaluated by relevant ministries and agencies, led by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI).

Anwar emphasised that any response or follow-up action must be carefully crafted, adding that there remains room for dialogue and negotiations with Malaysia’s major trading partners.

“This afternoon, I chaired the National Geoeconomic Command Centre (NGCC) Meeting. Malaysia remains committed to maintaining positive and forward-looking relations with all trading partners, while ensuring the interests and welfare of our people, businesses, and exporters are protected,” he shared in a Facebook post last night.

Earlier, the Prime Minister also stated that, in his capacity as ASEAN chairman, Malaysia would engage with several member states to reach a consensus on the US-announced reciprocal tariffs, with the aim of upholding fairness in international trade.

Indo-China Countries Hit Hardest by Tariffs

Among ASEAN nations, those in the Indo-China region are the most affected. Cambodia faces combined basic and reciprocal tariffs amounting to 49 per cent, followed by Laos (48 per cent), Vietnam (46 per cent), and Myanmar (44 per cent).

Thailand is subject to a 36 per cent tariff, Indonesia 32 per cent, while Brunei and Malaysia both face tariffs of 24 per cent. The Philippines and Singapore are impacted at lower rates, with tariffs of 17 per cent and 10 per cent respectively.

Tariff Measures Take Effect in 2025

The United States will also implement higher reciprocal tariffs targeting countries with which it holds significant trade deficits. These revised rates are set to take effect on April 9, 2025.

All other countries not affected by these specific adjustments will continue under the existing 10 per cent base tariff policy. — Bernama