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Malaysia's Tariff Deal in Doubt After Minister's Misstatement

3/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

Malaysia faces scrutiny over a tariff deal after Trade Minister Johari Abdul Ghani said it was void following Supreme Court ruling on tariffs by President Donald Trump.
The ministry said Ghani had misspoken.
The deal, signed in October, promises US$240 billion in investments for a 19% tariff.
Ghani warned move could affect Malaysia's exports unless labor and environmental standards are met.
White House has not commented, leaving the outcome uncertain.

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Story summary

Malaysia faces scrutiny over a tariff deal after Trade Minister Johari Abdul Ghani said it was void following Supreme Court ruling on tariffs by President Donald Trump.
The ministry said Ghani had misspoken.
The deal, signed in October, promises US$240 billion in investments for a 19% tariff.
Ghani warned move could affect Malaysia's exports unless labor and environmental standards are met.
White House has not commented, leaving the outcome uncertain.