Bold, independent coverage of Malaysian politics, business and current affairs.
The Trump administration has released a report identifying Singapore and 39 other nations as part of China's shadow transshipment network designed to circumvent US tariffs. The scheme could have cost America up to US$303 billion in customs revenue.
A 10 per cent US tariff on Indonesian goods threatens the country's export competitiveness, particularly in textiles and garments. Business leaders warn that rival nations like Cambodia and Vietnam face lower or no additional duties, while Indonesia's high production costs compound the challenge.
Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo has stepped down as Indonesia pursues tariff relief for palm oil exports. Across Southeast Asia, leaders strengthen regional cooperation on security, law enforcement, and trade resilience amid US pressure.
New US tariffs are unlikely to significantly impact Southeast Asian exports in the short term owing to extensive product exemptions and lower effective rates, though ongoing trade investigations pose longer-term risks.
Malaysia has become subject to a 10 per cent tariff on exports to the United States following a forced labour investigation, effective July 24. The ministry will continue engaging Washington over the measure.
Brazil has rejected new 12.5 per cent US tariffs, arguing the Section 301 investigation into forced labour enforcement was a pretext for protectionism. The country plans to challenge the decision at the WTO.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim says Malaysia will continue negotiations with the United States over newly imposed tariffs linked to forced labour enforcement, though he expressed relief the rates remain relatively modest.
The United States has imposed a 12.5% tariff on Singapore and 44 other nations, alleging inadequate enforcement of forced labour prohibitions. Singapore contests the findings and plans further dialogue with Washington.
The United States has announced additional tariffs of 10 to 12.5 per cent on 60 trading partners, including Malaysia's key regional neighbours, over their alleged failure to effectively enforce prohibitions on imports of goods manufactured using forced labour.
South Korea's Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan is visiting Washington this week to discuss trade and investment with senior US officials, as Seoul prepares for potential additional tariffs under Section 301 investigations.
India has enacted legislation banning imports of goods produced through forced labour, seeking to forestall new US tariffs that could reach 12.5% on nations deemed non-compliant with labour standards.