Kuala lumpur: Malaysia is actively engaging in discussions with the United States over the impending 25 percent tariffs set to take effect on August 1, aiming to secure a tariff rate below the 20 percent level, said Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz. He mentioned that an announcement is expected once the terms are finalized.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, discussions are ongoing, and negotiations are continuing this week, keeping Malaysia on track to meet the deadline. An announcement is anticipated once both parties agree on the terms. Tengku Zafrul conveyed this information to reporters at the ASEAN Semiconductor Summit (ASEMIS) 2025.

On the possibility of a deadline extension, Tengku Zafrul stated that it would ultimately depend on the administration of US President Donald Trump, noting that no formal talks on an extension have been held. He emphasized that every country faces different challenges, highlighting the importance of considering factors that could be detrimental to the Malaysian industry.

Tengku Zafrul declined to disclose the concessions Malaysia is offering in its ongoing trade discussions with the US. Non-tariff barriers have been a central focus of the talks, with key issues such as halal certification and government procurement closely tied to Malaysia’s national interests.