Kuala lumpur: Talks on the Malaysia-European Union Free Trade Agreement (MEUFTA) are set to begin shortly, as confirmed by Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz. The discussions will commence once the entire negotiation team from the European Union arrives in Malaysia.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the negotiations for MEUFTA, which have been on hold since 2012, indicate a shared commitment by both parties to pursue open, rules-based trade. This move is anticipated to drive prosperity and create high-quality jobs. During an address at the Malaysia-France Gala Night dinner, organized by the Malaysian French Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Tengku Zafrul emphasized the mutual benefits expected from the agreement, particularly in terms of industrial linkages and supply chain strengthening between Malaysia and France.

Tengku Zafrul highlighted that 149 projects involving French companies have been implemented in Malaysia as of June 2025. These initiatives represent an investment of RM6.3 billion and have resulted in the creation of over 12,000 jobs. He also pointed out that France ranks as Malaysia’s fourth-largest investor and trading partner, underscoring the confidence and ambition shared by both nations.

In his remarks, Tengku Zafrul expressed Malaysia’s intention to advance in the sectors of advanced manufacturing, energy transition, and digital industries, while also attracting quality investments. He lauded French expertise in aerospace, energy, and technology, and called for deeper collaboration in green manufacturing, clean technologies, and industrial innovation.