Interviews
Malaysia-US get over with first round of FTA negotiations
29 Jun '06
4 min read
The Malaysia-US FTA negotiations commenced following the decision by the Government in November 2005. The basis for the Government's decision was a cost-benefit study undertaken by the government, with inputs from the private sector.
The outcome of the on-going negotiations will determine the cost and benefit to Malaysia in all sectors. Malaysia will only accept an agreement if it is satisfied that its interest in all sectors, have been taken into account.
Industry associations such as the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers and Malaysian Textile Manufacturers Association have been working closely with the Government. These associations and other interested groups have provided inputs, and feedback, at the preparatory stage, as well as during the negotiations.
There is no specific timeline to conclude the Malaysia-US FTA negotiations. Five rounds have been scheduled, with the objective of completing the negotiations, if possible, before the expiry of the US Trade Promotion Authority in June 2007. However, Malaysia will seek whatever timeframe that is necessary, to negotiate an agreement, that would benefit Malaysia.
Malaysia will not accept any agreement, that does not contain adequate flexibilities, and safeguards, in all relevant areas of negotiations. These include longer time frames for liberalisation of sensitive products, and services sectors, and flexibility to undertake policy measures for Malaysia's developmental needs.
The outcome of the on-going negotiations will determine the cost and benefit to Malaysia in all sectors. Malaysia will only accept an agreement if it is satisfied that its interest in all sectors, have been taken into account.
Industry associations such as the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers and Malaysian Textile Manufacturers Association have been working closely with the Government. These associations and other interested groups have provided inputs, and feedback, at the preparatory stage, as well as during the negotiations.
There is no specific timeline to conclude the Malaysia-US FTA negotiations. Five rounds have been scheduled, with the objective of completing the negotiations, if possible, before the expiry of the US Trade Promotion Authority in June 2007. However, Malaysia will seek whatever timeframe that is necessary, to negotiate an agreement, that would benefit Malaysia.
Malaysia will not accept any agreement, that does not contain adequate flexibilities, and safeguards, in all relevant areas of negotiations. These include longer time frames for liberalisation of sensitive products, and services sectors, and flexibility to undertake policy measures for Malaysia's developmental needs.
Ministry of International Trade and Industry
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