US Tariff on Malaysia Stays at 19% Despite Trump’s Official Visit, Here’s What Changed About the Trade Deal

United States (US) President Donald Trump arrived in Malaysia on Sunday (26 October), with Air Force One touching down at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Trump later signed a wide-ranging reciprocal trade deal on the sidelines of the 47th ASEAN Summit, aimed at strengthening economic ties, expanding market access, and boosting supply chain resilience.

Donald trump and anwar ibrahim

“Malaysia is satisfied with the trade deal with the US”

The Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (MITI) has assured that the Reciprocal Trade Agreement (RTA) signed with the US won’t affect Malaysia’s sovereignty, according to BERNAMA.

MITI Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz said that both countries wouldn’t sign anything that compromises national sovereignty.

He added that Malaysia would actually gain from better market access compared to earlier agreements.

Tengku zafrul

Malaysia tariff stays at 19%!

Adding to the good news, local media reported that Tengku Zafrul announced the US tariff rate on Malaysia remains at 19%, which was set in August, with exemptions granted to 1,711 tariff lines.

He said the agreement respects the sovereignty of both countries.

“The exemptions cover some of Malaysia’s key exports, including palm oil, rubber products, cocoa, aircraft components and spare parts, as well as pharmaceuticals, which together make up about US$5.2 billion or 12% of total exports,” he said.

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Also read: Trump Sets Conditions for ASEAN Summit in KL: Recognition for Thai-Cambodia Peace Deal & No China Officials