Round-the-clock breaking news from Malaysia.
The Philippines is pushing the United States to lower a 12.5% tariff on its exports, arguing that new enforcement measures and existing laws demonstrate its commitment to preventing forced labour in manufacturing.
Five Taiwanese nationals have pleaded not guilty to human trafficking charges in connection with the exploitation of a Cameroonian woman for forced labour in Penang. The case highlights regional trafficking concerns.
Australia's PM Anthony Albanese has committed to pressing the Trump administration over newly imposed tariffs on Australian goods, arguing the levies are unjustified and vowing to pursue their removal through diplomatic channels.
Vietnam's Foreign Ministry has pushed back against new US tariffs, asserting the country strictly prohibits forced labour and has implemented domestic measures including a decree banning imports of goods produced through coercion.
Indonesia is pressing the United States Trade Representative for more favourable tariff treatment after Washington imposed a 10 per cent levy on Indonesian exports as part of a forced labour investigation affecting 60 countries.
Malaysia has begun facing a 10 per cent tariff on exports to the United States following the expiration of temporary measures under Section 301 investigations. The Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry pledges sustained dialogue with US authorities.
Brazil has rejected newly imposed 12.5 per cent US tariffs, dismissing forced labour allegations as a smokescreen for protectionism. The country plans immediate WTO dispute settlement proceedings.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed Malaysia will sustain discussions with the United States regarding tariffs imposed over forced labour compliance, though he expressed relief that the country faces lower duty rates than most affected nations.
The US has slapped Singapore with a 12.5% tariff, claiming insufficient forced labour enforcement. About one-third of Singapore's exports face the new duty. The move reflects broader Trump administration trade shifts.
The United States has announced additional tariffs of 10 to 12.5 per cent against 60 trading partners, including major economies, for inadequate enforcement of forced labour prohibitions on imported goods.
The Trump administration has finalized tariffs of up to 12.5 percent on South Korea, Japan and dozens of other trading partners following investigations into forced labour practices.
India has enacted a ban on importing goods produced through forced labour, aiming to prevent stricter US tariffs. The move follows Washington's investigation into nations allegedly permitting such imports, with penalties potentially reaching 12.5%.