Malaysia has defended its reciprocal trade agreement with the US, stating that the country has not surrendered its sovereignty in safeguarding the economy from harsher sanctions.
The deal, signed by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and US President Donald Trump, maintains a 19% tariff on Malaysian exports but grants exemptions for 1,711 essential products.
A clause in the agreement requires Malaysia to align itself with the US on economic restrictions or sanctions against a third country.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and US President Donald Trump signed a critical minerals deal in Kuala Lumpur on Oct 26.
Author's summary: Malaysia defends US trade pact.