Fast, factual wire coverage from across Malaysia and the region.
Malaysia's iron and steel sector will absorb approximately RM970.7 million in compliance costs when the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism takes effect on January 1, 2026, according to industry analysis presented to Parliament.
Bank Indonesia's governor Perry Warjiyo has resigned as Southeast Asian governments grapple with US trade pressures. The region faces mounting challenges over tariffs, labour standards, and industrial capacity concerns.
New US tariff measures are expected to have limited immediate impact on Southeast Asian exports to America, thanks to extensive product exemptions and lower-than-expected rates, though an ongoing probe into structural excess capacity remains a significant concern.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has committed to confronting US President Donald Trump over fresh tariffs imposed on 60 trading partners this week, with Australia among nations hit by a 12.5% levy.
Southeast Asian nations tackle major structural challenges this week. Indonesia advances its airline consolidation strategy, the Philippines celebrates ASEAN milestones amid typhoon impacts, while the region positions itself for supply chain opportunities.
Malaysia has been classified in the lower tariff bracket under US Section 301 measures, facing a 10% duty effective July 24. The lower rate reflects Kuala Lumpur's commitment to enforcing forced labour prohibitions, with 17 other economies receiving the same rate while others face 12.5% tariffs.
Indonesia is actively negotiating with the US Trade Representative's office to secure more favourable tariff treatment following Washington's imposition of a 10 per cent duty on Indonesian goods.
The United States has slapped a 12.5 per cent tariff on Singapore's exports, alleging insufficient enforcement of forced labour bans. Singapore denies the claims and has raised the matter with US officials.
The United States has announced additional tariffs ranging from 10 to 12.5 percent on 60 trading partners, including major economies, for inadequately enforcing prohibitions on forced-labour goods imports.
The Trump administration has finalised tariffs of up to 12.5 percent on South Korea, Japan and other trading partners following investigations into forced labour practices. The move replaces temporary global tariffs set to expire.
A senior adviser to Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for India to welcome greater Chinese investment and reconsider its stance on regional trade agreements, arguing the US has become an unreliable economic partner.
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has reasserted Tehran's role as guardian of the Strait of Hormuz following US President Donald Trump's proposal to impose a 20 per cent toll on vessels transiting the crucial waterway.
Western automakers have significantly increased European EV production since the EU imposed tariffs on Chinese-made vehicles, with Chinese imports falling sharply as the bloc pursues domestic manufacturing.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has instructed MITI and the Economy Ministry to work with manufacturers grappling with global supply chain disruptions, targeting cost relief measures to sustain Malaysia's industrial competitiveness.
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Malaysia's Halal Home Grown Champion programme has supported 313 companies—including 158 Bumiputera and 52 women-owned firms—generating RM187.91 million in potential sales through 2026, with MIHAS 2026 expected to boost market opportunities further.
Malaysia's Investment Minister Johari Abdul Ghani has called for the World Trade Organization to fundamentally reshape itself to address contemporary economic challenges, warning that failure to modernize risks rendering the institution obsolete.
Malaysia is rolling out 23 initiatives under its Halal Industry Master Plan 2030 to reduce reliance on imported halal ingredients. The government targets critical ingredient categories through R&D, MSME financing, and industry collaboration to boost domestic production capacity.