Where did the US get the 24% tariff figure? Tengku Zafrul says actual average import duty is only 5.6%

Where did the US get the 24% tariff figure? Tengku Zafrul says actual average import duty is only 5.6%

KUALA LUMPUR, April 7 — Malaysia is seeking clarification from the United States regarding the recently announced 24 per cent retaliatory tariff, said Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz.‍

Local
Local

KUALA LUMPUR, April 7 — Malaysia is seeking clarification from the United States regarding the recently announced 24 per cent retaliatory tariff, said Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz.

He refuted claims that Malaysia imposes a 47 per cent tariff on US imports, clarifying that the actual average import duty is only around 5.6 per cent, based on the simple average most favoured nation (MFN) applied rate.

“We completely disagree with the basis used to calculate this tariff, and we’ve raised the issue with the US ambassador and his team this morning.

“This inaccurate method of calculation has unfairly resulted in Malaysia being hit with a 24 per cent retaliatory tariff,” he said at a press conference addressing the impact of the US tariffs today.

Tengku Zafrul emphasized that Malaysia has no intention of imposing retaliatory measures on US goods.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to pursuing a fair resolution that maintains market access, encourages foreign investment, and safeguards the interests of local businesses and workers.

“Malaysia remains a dependable trading partner that is open to trade and investment. We value all our economic partnerships, especially with traditional partners like the US and China.

“We are, after all, an open, trade-driven economy,” he said. — Bernama

The minister said the government denies claims that Malaysia has imposed a 47 per cent tariff on US imports, clarifying that the actual average tariff stands at about 5.6 per cent, based on the simple average most favoured nation (MFN) applied rate. — Picture by Firdaus Latif

Latest

June 12, 2025
World
World
Trump Calls Protesters ‘Animals’ as White House Blames California Officials for Escalating Unrest

WASHINGTON, June 12 — The White House stated on Tuesday that President Donald Trump will not tolerate “mob rule,” as demonstrations against his immigration policies continue to spread across the U.S., despite a military-backed crackdown in Los Angeles.‍

June 6, 2025
Travel
Travel
Trump threatens to sever contracts with Musk-owned firms; Tesla shares plunge amid escalating online feud.

WASHINGTON, June 6 — A dramatic feud erupted yesterday between President Donald Trump and tech billionaire Elon Musk, as Trump threatened to sever government contracts with Musk’s companies while Musk called for Trump’s impeachment, marking a sharp end to their once close alliance.

June 5, 2025
Local
Local
PM: Sultan of Brunei commends IJN for its 'excellence and dedication' following treatment during Malaysia visit

PETALING JAYA, June 5 — Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei has commended the National Heart Institute (IJN) for its outstanding medical care and expertise following his recent treatment there, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim revealed.‍