In-depth reporting on Malaysia and the region.
The Philippines is optimistic about convincing the United States to reduce a 12.5 per cent tariff on its exports by showcasing domestic labour protections and a new inter-agency framework to combat forced labour.
Traffic has begun flowing across the Gordie Howe International Bridge connecting the US and Canada, following its July 24 opening. The crossing facilitates C$300 billion in annual trade between Ontario and Michigan.
Vietnam's Foreign Ministry has dismissed US tariff accusations as failing to acknowledge its strict prohibition on forced labour and new import restrictions. The government urges Washington to recognise its legislative compliance efforts.
President Trump has threatened to impose significant tariffs on the European Union, accusing it of unfairly penalising major US technology firms including Apple, Meta, Amazon and Google through multibillion-dollar fines.
Indonesia is actively negotiating with the US Trade Representative to reduce tariffs imposed under Washington's Section 301 investigation into forced labour and manufacturing capacity, with the 10% rate now in effect.
The Philippines is negotiating with the United States to reduce a newly imposed 12.5% tariff to 10%, following Washington's action against 60 countries for inadequate forced labour import controls.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim pledged that Malaysia will maintain dialogue with the United States regarding tariffs imposed over forced labour compliance, expressing relief that the rate applied is among the lowest globally.
Canada and the United States have committed to intensifying trade negotiations following Washington's imposition of additional 50 per cent tariffs on Canadian dairy products, vehicles, and alcoholic beverages, set to take effect August 19.
Brazil has pledged immediate economic retaliation after the US imposed a 25% tariff on select Brazilian exports, invoking domestic reciprocity laws and threatening World Trade Organisation action.