Washington: The Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) is dedicated to identifying an optimal approach concerning retaliatory tariffs to achieve mutual benefits, as stated by its Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, who is currently in the United States capital.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Tengku Zafrul, before engaging with senior US government officials, convened with the MITI team to evaluate strategies and recent initiatives aimed at enhancing Malaysia-US trade relations. During his two-day visit, he emphasized the ministry’s commitment to finding a beneficial solution for both parties involved.

The minister plans to meet with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and other pertinent officials in Washington. Additionally, the Malaysian delegation intends to engage with several business chambers, companies, and interest groups to clarify Malaysia’s stance on the tariff issue and share the feedback received from the Cabinet.

Tengku Zafrul highlighted Malaysia’s neutral position and its significant role in the semiconductor and electrical and electronics sectors, aiming to showcase Malaysia’s support for US industries rather than posing a threat. Accompanying him will be MITI deputy secretary-general (trade) Mastura Ahmad Mustafa and other ministry officials, along with MITI representatives from the Malaysian Embassy in Washington.

In a prior media briefing, Tengku Zafrul mentioned that the visit would also address ASEAN’s perspective on the tariff issue, particularly in light of the outcomes from the recent special meeting of ASEAN Economic Ministers. The Indochina ASEAN member countries have been notably affected by these tariffs, with specific rates impacting Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, and others in the region.

In a separate statement titled ‘Seeking a Fair and Equitable Trade Solution’, Tengku Zafrul shared that he had constructive discussions with US Ambassador Matt Murray, highlighting Malaysia’s role as a committed partner in both bilateral and regional contexts, including its future position as ASEAN chair in 2025 and as an APEC member. Malaysia remains one of the 21 member economies of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC).