Malaysia News Today - Breaking News, Politics, Economy, Sports & Technology

Premier: AirBorneo to connect Sarawak-Singapore; boost tourism, trade links

Anwar urges Malaysia-US Reciprocal Trade Agreement finalisation

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the importance of finalizing the Reciprocal Trade Agreement with the US during a meeting with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. Anwar highlighted the agreement's strategic value for policy and business planning in both countries. He reiterated Malaysia's commitment to open trade and strengthening ties with trading partners to support domestic economic growth. Greer also participated in the ASEAN-US Trade Ministers Negotiation Meeting.

Sarawak eyes stronger ties with Henan in trade, logistics, cultural exchange

Sarawak seeks closer cooperation with China's Henan Province, particularly its capital Zhengzhou, in logistics, trade, and cultural exchange. Kuching South Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng highlighted Zhengzhou's expertise in logistics as a valuable model for Sarawak's development. He encouraged Zhengzhou-based companies like Mixue to establish regional hubs in Sarawak. Henan Governor Wang Kai led the delegation, and Zhengzhou Mayor Zhuang Jianqiu emphasized the strong trade relationship between Henan and Malaysia, with plans to formalize a sister-province/state agreement with Sarawak.

Malaysia hits RM15.6 bln in potential trade, investment value at Expo 2025 Osaka

Malaysia has exceeded its RM13 billion target for potential trade and investment value at Expo 2025 Osaka, reaching approximately RM15.6 billion. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof attributed this success to strong partnerships and the attractiveness of Malaysia's offerings. The Malaysia Pavilion has hosted numerous business and cultural programs, focusing on sectors like green energy, halal innovation, and digital transformation. Trade with Japan also saw significant growth in the first half of 2025, reaching RM70.41 billion.

Indonesia says US agrees tariff exemption for palm oil, cocoa and rubber

Indonesia has secured a preliminary agreement with the United States for a tariff exemption on its palm oil, cocoa, and rubber exports. This exemption from the 19% tariff imposed by the Trump administration will be finalized once negotiations conclude. The deal also includes potential US investment in Indonesian fuel storage. Indonesia had previously negotiated a tariff deal, but was later subjected to the same rate as other Southeast Asian nations. In exchange, Indonesia offered significant investments in the US and pledged to purchase American goods.

Malaysia, Brunei vow to boost energy, trade ties

Malaysia and Brunei have committed to strengthening cooperation in key sectors including energy, connectivity, agriculture, tourism, and the halal industry. Following the 26th Annual Leaders’ Consultation, both nations aim to leverage Borneo's resources to enhance food and energy security and promote regional integration, particularly between Brunei and Sabah and Sarawak. Joint ventures in the energy sector, including progress on the cross-border power interconnection project, were highlighted as key areas of focus.

Canadian shoppers may see relief as Ottawa lifts many tariffs on US goods, but not on autos

Canada will lift several retaliatory tariffs on US goods to encourage trade talk progress, a source revealed. However, tariffs on US autos, steel, and aluminum will remain. Prime Minister Mark Carney will hold a press conference on Friday to address the situation. This move follows months of negotiations between the two countries on a new economic and security relationship. While Carney initially campaigned on a tough stance against US tariffs, his approach has softened recently, potentially posing a political challenge given his minority government.

US, EU outline trade deal with lower car tariffs but no relief for European wine sector

The US and EU have reached a preliminary trade agreement that will lower tariffs on most EU exports to the US, including cars, to 15%. While this is touted as the most favorable US trade deal with any partner, negotiations are ongoing. The EU is seeking further concessions, particularly for the wine sector, which is currently included in the 15% tariff. The lower car tariff is expected to be retroactive from August 1st, contingent on the EU eliminating its tariffs on US industrial products.

Washington accepts Brazil’s WTO request over Trump’s 50pc tariffs

The US has agreed to WTO consultations with Brazil regarding the 50% tariffs imposed by Washington on Brazilian goods. Brazil requested the talks after President Trump increased duties on several key exports, including coffee, beef, and sugar. Trump cited Brazil's alleged persecution of his ally, former President Bolsonaro, and claimed their policies threatened US interests. The US acknowledges the consultation request but notes some issues might fall under national security, exempting them from WTO review. The US, unusually, holds a trade surplus with Brazil.

Tengku Zafrul concedes Malaysia hit with 19pc US tariffs after refusing to cross ‘red lines’, but insists won’t retaliate

Malaysia faces a 19% tariff from the US after refusing to cross certain "red lines" in trade negotiations. Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Zafrul confirmed this, stating Malaysia wouldn't meet all US requests. Despite the tariffs, Malaysia won't retaliate due to the US's importance as an investor and trade partner. The initial proposed tariff was 25%. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim previously emphasized Malaysia's refusal to compromise on national policies, including the Bumiputera policy. Concerns remain about potential semiconductor tariffs, which currently stand at 0%, but could rise significantly, impacting Malaysia and other ASEAN nations involved in the supply chain.

Trump says semiconductor tariffs coming soon, could reach 300pc to force tech firms back to US

US President Donald Trump announced plans to impose tariffs on steel and semiconductors in the coming weeks. He stated the tariffs would initially be lower but increase significantly over time to incentivize companies to relocate operations to the United States. Trump suggested rates could reach 200-300%, targeting industries like automobiles and artificial intelligence. This follows a previous announcement of 100% tariffs on semiconductors from companies not investing in the US, and existing steel tariffs that have already doubled to 50%.

Trump signs order to extend China tariff truce by 90 days

US President Donald Trump has delayed reimposing higher tariffs on Chinese goods until November 10th, extending a trade truce between the two nations. The tariffs were scheduled to resume on Tuesday. Both countries had previously agreed to temporarily lower tariffs after escalating them earlier this year. The current rates of 30% for US tariffs on Chinese goods and 10% for Chinese tariffs on US goods will remain in effect. This extension coincides with a joint statement from US-China talks in Stockholm, confirming China's reciprocal extension of the truce.

Trump lanjutkan tarikh akhir tarif China

President Trump has delayed the deadline for increased tariffs on Chinese goods by 90 days, extending it to November 9th. This follows reported progress in trade talks between US and Chinese negotiators in Stockholm. The tariffs were set to increase from 30% to 64%. Trump confirmed the extension via Truth Social, while a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson expressed hope for continued cooperation. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent recently expressed optimism about reaching a trade deal.

Soybean diplomacy: Trump tells China to boost US bean imports fourfold

Former US President Donald Trump expressed hope that China would quadruple its soybean orders from the US, suggesting it as a way to reduce China's trade deficit. A trade truce between the two countries is nearing expiration. China, a major soybean importer, primarily sources from Brazil and the US. While increased US soybean purchases were part of a previous trade deal, China fell short of its targets. Experts doubt China would quadruple its imports, and it's unclear if this is a condition for extending the truce.

Delhi’s dilemma: With 50pc US trade tariff looming, what can India do?

India faces a potential 50% tariff on its exports to the US if a trade deal isn't reached within three weeks. Disagreements over access to India's agricultural and dairy markets, along with India's purchase of Russian oil, have stalled negotiations. While India seeks further talks and considers tariff reductions on some US goods, Prime Minister Modi emphasized his commitment to protecting domestic sectors. India has also reduced Russian oil imports due to narrowing discounts and US pressure, despite concerns about global price increases.

World : US To Release Trade Deal Documents With Japan, South Korea Within Weeks

The US Commerce Secretary, Howard Lutnick, announced plans to release official documents regarding recent trade agreements with Japan and South Korea. The release is expected within weeks, according to a Kyodo news agency report. This move towards transparency aims to provide further details on the specifics of these trade deals.

General : Slaughtering, Processing Of Imported Meat Comply With Malaysian, Australian Standards - JAKIM

Malaysia and Australia uphold stringent standards for meat and meat product processing. All meat and meat-based products supplied or exported to Malaysia, whether processed in Malaysia or Australia, adhere to regulations set by both countries. This ensures quality and safety in the meat trade between the two nations.

Business : Thailand Sets Up One-stop Service Centre To Help Exporters Weather US Tariffs

Thailand launched the Ministry of Commerce One Stop Service (MOC OSS) Centre to support Thai businesses navigating US tariff measures. The centre provides comprehensive trade services, including tax advice and market expansion strategies, aiming to mitigate export cost increases.

World : Trump Extends Tariff Suspension On China For Another 90 Days

US President Donald Trump extended the tariff suspension on certain Chinese goods for 90 days. This executive order delays the implementation of tariffs that were previously postponed. The decision comes amid ongoing trade negotiations between the US and China.

Business : ASEAN Ready To Upgrade FTA With Japan

ASEAN nations have expressed their willingness to modernize their free trade agreement (FTA) with Japan. This signals an intent to update the existing agreement to reflect current economic realities and enhance trade relations between the two regions. The announcement was made in Osaka, Japan.