Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia has stepped up its trade diplomacy, urging the United States to exempt its exports of furniture, automobile components, and aerospace parts from high import duties. The request, made through official channels, comes as the Southeast Asian nation grapples with escalating tariff barriers that threaten its export-driven economy.
According to senior trade officials, Malaysia is also seeking broader tariff relief on goods not produced in the U.S., such as cocoa and palm oil. Washington is currently reviewing the proposals, with a final decision expected next month. The move is seen as part of Malaysia’s wider strategy to safeguard its industrial and agricultural exports, which have been facing mounting challenges from recent protectionist measures.
The backdrop to Malaysia’s plea lies in the recent escalation of U.S. tariffs. In August, Washington imposed a 19 percent duty on Malaysian products, shaking the country’s export sector. More recently, targeted tariffs were raised to as high as 50 percent on kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities and 30 percent on upholstered furniture. These measures have dealt a direct blow to Malaysia’s well-established furniture industry, a sector that plays a pivotal role in the nation’s economy and employs thousands of workers.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has emphasized the urgency of reaching an agreement with Washington. He noted that Kuala Lumpur is pushing to finalize discussions ahead of the upcoming U.S.–ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur, coinciding with a planned visit by U.S. President Donald Trump in October. The timing is considered critical, as Malaysia seeks to use high-level dialogue to address trade tensions and secure relief for its industries.
Observers note that Malaysia’s request carries significant strategic and economic implications. The furniture, automotive, and aerospace sectors form a large share of Malaysia’s export portfolio, and tariff relief could restore competitiveness in these markets. At the same time, the request highlights Malaysia’s need to protect commodities like palm oil and cocoa, which face increasing scrutiny in global trade even though they are not produced domestically in the United States.
The path forward, however, is uncertain. Analysts warn that the U.S. may not grant outright zero tariffs without conditions, and exemptions could come with negotiations over reciprocal trade commitments. Still, Malaysia’s proactive appeal underscores the country’s determination to protect its export sectors from the adverse impacts of shifting global trade policies.
As the October deadline approaches, businesses in Malaysia’s manufacturing and agricultural hubs are watching closely. The outcome of these discussions could decide whether Malaysia regains lost ground in its largest overseas markets or whether exporters will continue to face heavy headwinds from Washington’s tariff regime.