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Malaysia's investment ministry is doubling down on efforts to fortify the electrical and electronics sector, particularly semiconductors, to keep the nation competitive in global technology supply networks amid growing international competition.
Malaysia's domestic trade ministry is inviting stakeholders to submit proposals and feedback to strengthen the nation's push for greater use and purchase of local products, coordinating efforts across government.
Malaysia's government will scrutinise import requirements and develop policies to reduce reliance on overseas supply chains, aiming to strengthen domestic industries and advance toward high-income nation status.
Malaysia's steel industry will bear approximately RM970.7 million in compliance costs when the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism takes effect on January 1, 2026, according to the Malaysian Steel Institute.
Indonesia is actively negotiating with the US Trade Representative to secure better tariff rates following Washington's imposition of 10% duties on Indonesian goods under its forced labour investigation.
The United States has announced additional tariffs of 10 to 12.5 per cent on 60 trading partners, including China, the EU, and India, for inadequately addressing forced labour in global supply chains.
The Trump administration has confirmed tariffs of up to 12.5% on South Korea, Japan and dozens of other trading partners, citing forced labour violations. The move replaces expired temporary duties and follows failed attempts at country-specific tariff strategies.
A senior economic adviser to Prime Minister Modi has called for India to significantly increase Chinese investment and trade, suggesting geopolitical shifts make the US a less reliable partner for New Delhi's economic future.
Japan will establish a dedicated organization by August to protect plant variety rights and curb unauthorized cultivation of premium crops abroad, addressing massive revenue losses from leaked seedlings.
American diplomats are working to reshape the G20 agenda ahead of December's Miami summit, pushing to remove language on poverty reduction, energy transition, and gender equality while prioritising immigration and trade discussions.