The united states: The United States (US) has initiated investigations into the acts, policies, and practices of 15 economies, including Malaysia and the European Union (EU), under Section 301(b) of the Trade Act of 1974 relating to structural excess capacity and production in manufacturing sectors.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the US Trade Representative (USTR), Ambassador Jamieson Greer, stated that the investigations aim to determine whether these acts, policies, and practices are unreasonable or discriminatory, and whether they burden or restrict US commerce. Greer highlighted that the economies being scrutinized include China, the European Union, Singapore, Switzerland, Norway, Indonesia, Malaysia, Cambodia, Thailand, Korea, Vietnam, Taiwan, Bangladesh, Mexico, Japan, and India.

Greer also noted that the reindustrialisation efforts under President Donald Trump's administration continue to face significant challenges. As part of the investigation process, the USTR is required to seek consultations with the economies whose acts, policies, or practices are under investigation.

Consultations have been requested with the governments of the identified economies, namely China, the European Union, Singapore, Switzerland, Norway, Indonesia, Malaysia, Cambodia, Thailand, Korea, Vietnam, Taiwan, Bangladesh, Mexico, Japan, and India. Additionally, a docket for public comments regarding the investigations is scheduled to open on March 17, 2026.