Malaysia Seeks US Tariff Relief Amid Trump’s New Import Duties

Malaysia is pushing for zero tariffs on key exports to the United States, including furniture, car parts, and airplane components. A trade ministry official confirmed Washington is considering the request, particularly for goods like cocoa and palm oil that the US doesn't produce domestically. A final decision is expected next month.

The appeal comes as President TRUMP announced sweeping new tariffs on imported goods, including a 50% levy on kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities, and 30% on padded furniture. These measures follow a 19% tariff imposed on Malaysian goods in August, with both nations aiming to finalize a deal ahead of Trump's October visit to Kuala Lumpur.

Trump's latest protectionist MOVE includes a 100% tariff on brand-name medicines and 25% on heavy trucks, citing national security and factory protection. The administration has now imposed tariffs as high as 50% across various product categories, continuing its aggressive trade policy stance.