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Malaysia's anti-corruption watchdog has proposed deploying AI-powered scanners at cargo terminals nationwide to improve detection of dangerous goods and reduce smuggling risks through technological advancement.
Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo has resigned, marking a significant leadership change at the central bank. Indonesia simultaneously accelerates diplomatic efforts to secure US tariff exemptions for palm oil exports as regional economic pressures mount.
New US tariff measures are expected to have limited immediate impact on ASEAN exports thanks to broad product exemptions and lower-than-feared effective rates, though ongoing trade investigations pose longer-term challenges for the region.
A proposed Malaysia-Thailand border economic zone could significantly boost bilateral trade and lower logistics costs through improved infrastructure and customs procedures, economists say. The initiative targets US$30 billion in annual trade by 2027.
Indonesia is actively negotiating with the US Trade Representative to reduce a newly imposed 10% tariff on its goods, arguing it meets labour standards and lacks excess manufacturing capacity.
Indonesia is pursuing aggressive trade diplomacy following a mixed World Trade Organisation ruling on European Union anti-dumping duties targeting its fatty acid exports. The decision offers Jakarta a strategic opening to challenge Brussels' methodology.
Thailand's cabinet has approved opening a new permanent border checkpoint at Sadao effective July 11, aimed at strengthening trade, logistics, investment and tourism ties with Malaysia through improved cross-border infrastructure and procedures.
Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has urged Malaysian rural entrepreneurs to look beyond domestic markets and tap into ASEAN and the global halal economy, highlighting recent development achievements.
Belgium's Deputy Prime Minister Maxime Prévot expressed confidence that the Malaysia-European Union Free Trade Agreement will unlock substantial trade opportunities, drive economic growth, and generate employment for both regions within the next few months to a year.
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Malaysia and Thailand are engaged in intensive negotiations to resolve a temporary suspension of shrimp imports affecting five species. Both nations seek solutions protecting their interests, with Thailand warning of potential WTO and ASEAN escalation if talks fail.