PUTRAJAYA, Nov 7 — The Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (Miti) has made the full text of the Malaysia–United States Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) publicly available online, a move analysts say could help reinforce Malaysia’s commitment to transparent trade governance.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the Cabinet reviewed the agreement earlier today and found no conflicts with national laws or the Federal Constitution.
“The government believes this step will clear up any misconceptions and reaffirm our openness in trade matters,” Fahmi told the press.
The ART, signed on October 26 during Donald Trump’s visit to Kuala Lumpur for the 47th Asean Summit, aims to reduce tariff rates on Malaysian exports to the US from 25% to 19%, providing a potential boost for key industries such as electronics, rubber, and palm oil.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim earlier said that the deal was vetted by the Attorney General’s Chambers and includes safeguards to protect Bumiputera participation in trade.
Economists view the publication as a strategic move to reassure investors that Malaysia remains a stable and rules-based trading partner.