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Trade Policy Review Body    
 
*In Original language only/ En langue originale seulement /En el idioma original solamente . 
  
MALAYSIA  
DRAFT MINUTES  OF THE MEETING* HELD ON 8 AND 10 FEBRUARY 2023  
Delegations are invited to submit factual corrections, if any, on their own statement to the 
Secretariat ( Daniela  Salas : danielamariana.salas@wto.org , or to  tprd@wto.org ) no later tha n 
31 March  2023. 
 
Organe d'examen des politiques commerciales  
 
MALAISIE  
PROJET DE COMPTE RENDU DE LA RÉUNION* TENUE LES 8 ET 10 FÉVRIER  2023 
Les délégations sont invitées à soumettre  leurs éventuelles corrections factuelles concernant leurs 
propres déclarations au Secrétariat ( Daniela  Salas : danielamariana.salas@wto.org , ou 
tprd@wto.org ) le 31 mars 2023 au plus tard.  
 
Órgano de Examen de las Políticas Comerciales  
 
MALASIA  
PROYECTO DE ACTA DE LA REUNIÓN* CELEBRADA LOS DÍAS 8 Y 10 DE FEBRERO DE 2023  
Las delegaciones pueden enviar a la Secretaría ( Daniela  Salas : danielamariana.salas@wto.org , 
o tprd@wto.org ) a más tardar el 31 de marzo de 2023  las correcciones fácticas que deseen 
introducir en sus propias declaraciones.  
 
 
_______________  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
MALAYSIA  
DRAFT  MINUTES OF THE MEETING  
Chairperson: H.E. Mr Didier Chambovey  
CONTENTS  
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .......................  3 
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF MALAYSIA  ................................ ... 5 
3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  ................................ ................................ ..............  10 
4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  ................................ ................................ ........................  13 
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF MALAYSIA AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  ...... 50 
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .........................  55 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies provided 
by Malaysia are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/436/Add.1 and will be available online at 
http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
1.1.  The eighth Trade Policy Review of Malaysia was held on 8 and 10  February  2023. Due to  the 
absence of the TPRB Chairperson, H.E.  Mr Ángel Villalobos  Rodríguez (Mexico), the Chair of the 
General  Council, H.E.  Mr Didier  Chambovey (Switzerland), chaired the meeting in accordance with 
the Rules of Procedures of the TPRB. He welcomed the delegat ion of Malaysia, headed by 
H.E. Mr Datuk  Isham  Ishak, Secretary General of Ministry of International Trade and Industry of 
Malaysia; the rest of the delegation; and the discussant, H.E.  Mr Alparslan  Acarsoy (Türkiye).  
1.2.  The Chairperson took the opportunity to convey, on behalf of WTO Members, the most sincere 
and heartfelt condolences to H.E.  Ambassador Alparslan  Acarsoy and the people of Türkiye on the 
tragic earthquake that devastated south -eastern part the country.  
1.3.  The Chairperson was pleased that, in addition to physical presence, the meeting also benefited 
from the Interprefy online connection, allowing for a wider participation of the Membership.  
1.4.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of TPRs and the main elements of procedures for the 
meeting. The Report by Malaysia is contained in document WT/TPR/G/436, and that of the WTO 
Secretariat in document WT/TPR/S/436.  
1.5.  Questions by the following delegations were submitted in writing before the deadline: Chile; 
Canada; Singapo re; Hong  Kong,  China; Thailand; United  Kingdom; Japan; New  Zealand; 
Saudi  Arabia; China; European  Union; Philippines; Brunei  Darussalam; Republic of Korea; 
Dominican  Republic; and Colombia. The following delegations submitted written questions after the 
deadline: Brazil, Türkiye, Australia, India, Pakistan, Iceland, United  States, Chinese  Taipei, 
Kazakhstan, El  Salvador, Argentina, and Indonesia.  
1.6.  The Chairperson first recalled some elements of Malaysia's previous Review and developments 
since then, as well as identified some key issues arising from the advance written questions 
submitted by Members for this TPR.  
1.7.  During the previous TPRB meeting on 14 and 16  February  2018, Members commended 
Malaysia inter alia for its strong and steady economic growth, prude nt macroeconomic management 
and diversified nature of the economy that allowed for strong and inclusive growth, domestic reform, 
services sector liberalization, and enhanced private sector participation, as well as its growing role 
as an investment destina tion and as a foreign investor.  
1.8.  Malaysia was commended for its active participation in the WTO, including in several joint 
initiatives, as well as for its ratification of the Protocol Amending the TRIPS  Agreement , and the 
Trade Facilitation Agreement. At t hat time, Members were of the view that Malaysia's notifications 
record could be improved in many areas. It was noted that while Malaysia remained committed to 
the multilateral trading system, it was also expanding its RTA commitments.  
1.9.  Although Malaysia h ad lowered tariffs under the ITA -2, applied MFN tariffs had risen overall 
from 5.6% in 2013 to 7.5% in 2017 and the tariff regime was perceived as being complex with tariff 
peaks and unbound tariff lines. Members had noted that non -tariff measures should b e reviewed 
and reduced, and there were some concerns about increased resort to anti -dumping measures, and 
the valuation system for imported automobiles. The reduction of fuel subsidies and subsidies to the 
fishery sector were welcomed.  
1.10.  Several Members foun d Malaysia's application of SPS requirements and other standards to be 
excessively stringent and sought clarity about halal certification and related procedures. The public 
procurement market could be made more open and transparent to foreign suppliers, an d Malaysia 
was encouraged to consider joining the GPA. Efforts to review IPR legislation and improve 
enforcement were appreciated.  
1.11.  For this review, in their advance written questions, Members have sought information 
regarding targeted macro and microecono mic policies, tax reforms, monetary policy issues, 
initiatives for increasing employment, labour and migrant workers policy issues, women participation 
in the economy and their empowerment, the formulation of a New Investment Policy, and current 
investment  incentives, including enhanced incentives in targeted sectors.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  1.12.  Some Members expressed an interest in Malaysia's participation in JSIs, the impact of 
Malaysia's involvement in various RTAs, and sought a timetable for the delivery of outstanding 
notificati ons to the WTO.  
1.13.  Issues raised with respect to the import and export regimes include trade facilitation 
measures, valuation practices, applied vs. bound tariffs, the TRQ regime, taxation of alcoholic 
beverages and automobiles, non -tariff measures affecting  specific products, export taxes and export 
support. The elaboration of domestic standards and alignment with international standards is a 
matter of continued interest, and so is the application of certain SPS requirements and policies 
towards halal produc ts. In government procurement, Members searched for information regarding 
how the present system works and how opportunities for foreign suppliers may be enhanced. 
Changes in IPR legislation and Malaysia's efforts to step up its IP enforcement also draw th e interest 
of many Members.  
1.14.  In addition, there were queries about policies related to fisheries, support to agriculture, 
implementation of the National Mineral Industry Transformation Plan, the impact of the 4th Industrial 
Revolution in manufacturing, the application of "best interest of Malaysia" criteria for foreign 
providers of financial services, and policies in the telecommunications sector.  
1.15.  In total, Malaysia received about 342  advance written questions from 28 delegations for this 
review, out of whi ch some 155  questions from 16  delegations were sent within the established 
deadline. Prior to the meeting, Malaysia had already provided written replies to all questions 
submitted within the established deadline.  
1.16.  The meeting was a good opportunity for Memb ers to discuss in greater detail issues of interest 
to them and of systemic importance to the multilateral trading system. Malaysia also felt the 
dramatic impact of the COVID -19 pandemic, followed by an economic recovery gaining momentum. 
The Chairperson t rusted that Malaysia is in a position to confirm during the two -day meeting that 
the picture is steadily improving. The Chairperson looked forward to a fruitful exchange.  
1.17.  The Chairperson closed his introductory remarks by wishing Malaysia a very successful  
eighth  Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF MAL AYSIA (H.E.  MR DATUK 
ISHAM  ISHAK)  
Introduction  
2.1.  I am pleased to be here in Geneva to participate in Malaysia's eighth  Trade Policy Review. Allow 
me to first express my appreciation  to H.E.  Mr Alparslan  Acarsoy of Türkiye, the discussant for 
Malaysia's TPR, and the Secretariat for their excellent work in producing the Report on Malaysia.  
2.2.  We are honoured by the interest that Members have shown in Malaysia's policies. We have 
received  a total of 315  questions from 27 WTO  Members, with 16  Members submitting by the 
deadline for advance written question, on 4  January  2023. I am pleased to inform you that Malaysia 
has provided replies to all the advanced written questions. We are still wor king on the replies for 
questions that were submitted after the deadline and will submit them in due course after this 
TPR session.  
2.3.  The questions received from Members cover a number of areas, mainly on trade openness, 
intellectual property rights, food s ecurity, financial services, sustainable development, e -commerce, 
SMEs development, free trade agreements, as well as standards.  
2.4.  Before addressing some of the key issues raised by Members, please allow me to share with 
you an overview of Malaysia's econom ic developments since our last TPR exercise in 2018.  
Malaysia and the multilateral trading system  
2.5.  It is without a doubt that Malaysia has benefited from its membership in the GATT and later 
the WTO. Our active participation in the multilateral trading system has contributed towards the 
growth and development of Malaysia into a major developing trading nation.  
2.6.  As such, Malaysia continues to uphold an open, fair, transparent and rules -based multilateral 
trading system with the WTO at its core, and support the efforts to strengthen the WTO through 
reforms and modernization. This is evident in the number of advanced written questions received 
by Malaysia for the eighth  TPR which is fewer than our last exercise. It is a clear indication that 
Members are well aware of Malaysia's continuous efforts to maintain an open and transparent trading 
environment that conforms to the WTO rules and practices.  
2.7.  Malaysia has also been a strong advocate of  the special and differential treatment (S&D) in 
creating a more level playing field for WTO Members from different levels of development. At the 
recently concluded Twelfth Ministerial Conference, Malaysia has co -sponsored the waiver of certain 
provisions in the TRIPS  Agreement aimed at ensuring an equitable access to vaccines and 
therapeutics for the developing countries and LDCs.  
2.8.  While Malaysia continues to place high priority on the multilateral trading system, Malaysia 
also progressively liberalizes tra de and non -tariff barriers through participation in numerous bilateral 
and regional trading arrangements. To date, Malaysia has implemented a total of 16  FTAs which 
comprises 7  bilateral FTAs and 9  regional FTAs.  
2.9.  Despite Malaysia's involvement in these bil ateral and regional trading agreements, Malaysia 
considers its active engagement in FTAs as building blocks for wider multilateral trade liberalization. 
We also ensure that all our trade arrangements respect the principles and rules of the WTO.  
Overall eco nomic environment during the review period  
2.10.  The period of 2018 until 2022 was a challenging time for the global economy. Global 
merchandise trade declined in 2019 (by 0.1%) and 2020 (by 5.3%) due to rising trade tensions and 
the COVID -19 pandemic. Neverthel ess, the Malaysian business community remained resilient 
despite the global uncertainties during the review period.  
2.11.  During the period of 2018 -2021, the Malaysian economy recorded an average GDP growth 
of 1.6%. While net foreign direct investment (FDI) gre w by 4.5% per annum during the same period. 
The economy is expected to expand further by 5.3% -6.3% in 2022, with growth to be underpinned 
by stronger external demand as the global economy recovers, as well as improved domestic demand.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  2.12.  Trade activities rema ined intact during the pandemic period, as Malaysia recorded double -digit 
growth in trade balance for five consecutive years from 2018 until 2021. In 2022, Malaysia's trade 
continued to register another record -breaking achievement with total trade and trad e surplus soaring 
to a new high. This is a positive reflection that Malaysia's economy is on an upward trajectory, 
boosted by higher external demand and strong commodity prices.  
Economic development plans  
2.13.  The period under review coincides with Malaysia's i mplementation of two economic 
development plans namely the Eleventh Malaysia Plan (2016 -2020) and the Twelfth Malaysia Plan 
(2021 -2025).  
2.14.  The Eleventh Plan was the final leg in the journey towards realizing Malaysia's Vision  2020. 
During the Eleventh Plan, real GDP was targeted to expand between 5% to 6% per annum and the 
gross national income (GNI) per capita was expected to exceed the USD  15,000 threshold.  
2.15.  However, the Malaysian economy registered an average annual growth rate of 2.7% over the 
Eleventh Pla n period as it was significantly weighed down by the impact of the COVID -19 pandemic.  
2.16.  Realizing the needs to promote sustainable economic recovery, the Government introduced 
the Twelfth Malaysia Plan in 2021. With a targeted average real GDP growth of 4.5 %-5.5% 
per annum. The Plan is anchored on three key themes focusing on resetting the economy, 
strengthening security, improving wellbeing and inclusivity, as well as advancing the sustainability 
agenda.  
Digital economy  
2.17.  The pandemic has accelerated digital  transformation as businesses turn to technology to help 
them meet the challenges posed by the pandemic. In 2020, Malaysia's digital economy contributed 
22.6% of the country's GDP, registering a double -digit growth of 10.4% compared to the 7.3% in 
the prev ious year.  
2.18.  The Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint was introduced in February  2021 to transform 
Malaysia into a digitally -driven and high -income nation and ultimately become a regional leader in 
digital economy. The Blueprint specifies Six Strategic Thrust s, namely to drive digital transformation 
in the public sector, boost economic competitiveness through digitalization, develop digital 
infrastructure, build a digitally -skilled workforce, create an inclusive digital society and establish a 
secure and ethic al digital environment.  
2.19.  In line with the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint, a targeted programme to further enable 
digital infrastructure known as the National Digital Network Plan ( Jalinan Digital Negara  – JENDELA) 
was established in collaboration with i ndustry players to increase broadband connectivity throughout 
the nation.  
2.20.  Malaysia Digital that was launched in 2022, is a national strategic initiative by the Government 
to encourage and attract companies, talent and investment while enabling Malaysian b usinesses and 
the people to play a leading part in the global digital economy. The Malaysia Digital initiative is set 
to succeed the MSC Malaysia, which was established to transform Malaysia into a knowledge -based 
economy since mid -1990s.  
2.21.  The National Fou rth Industrial Revolution (4IR) Policy launched in 2021 also complements the 
Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint in driving the growth of digital economy. This policy outlines key 
focus areas which impact the people, business, and government, in order to se ize growth 
opportunities and to address potential risks arising from 4IR.  
2.22.  Malaysia is also committed in international platforms discussing established standard policies 
for digital economy elements. Malaysia is an active participant in the ongoing WTO Joi nt Statement 
Initiative (JSI) on e -commerce, in efforts to develop a base multilateral rule for digital economy, 
that would help establish policy benchmark for issues such as cybersecurity, data flow and digital 
trade.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  Strengthening infrastructure and con nectivity  
2.23.  Transport infrastructure is a key driver to economic and social development with its function 
to improve mobility of people and goods. As such, the Government has placed strong emphasis on 
the development of transport infrastructure, namely urban  and intercity rail, road, airport, and ports 
to serve the need of the people and the industries.  
2.24.  The development of the National Transport Policy 2019 -2030 and the Highway Network 
Development Plan 2030 aims to streamline the fragmented transport initiati ves among federal and 
state governments, to ensure effective and efficient use of resources to provide seamless movement 
of people and goods, thus contributing to economic expansion and prosperity.  
2.25.  Under the Twelfth Plan, Malaysia aims to become a regional  transport and logistics hub 
by 2025 through various initiatives to enhance the competitiveness of the transport and logistics 
sectors. These initiatives include enhancing efficiency and leveraging on digitalization in transport 
and logistic services, at t he same time contributing towards improving logistics and cargo -handling 
processes, increasing cargo volume and trade.  
Initiatives to facilitate trade  
2.26.  Malaysia has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce irrelevant regulatory burdens and 
improve bord er competitiveness with the aim to facilitate trade.  
2.27.  During the period under review, Malaysia has fully implemented its commitments under 
the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). Malaysia has notified the full commitments of 
Article  7.8 on Expedited Sh ipment and Article  11.9 on Advance Filing and Processing of Transit on 
1 June 2021, ahead of initial notification deadline of 22  February  2022.  
2.28.  In addition, the Unified Public Consultation (UPC) portal also serves as a platform to facilitate 
stakeholder e ngagements as part of an informed decision -making and good regulatory governance. 
It provides an opportunity to traders and other interested parties to comment on new legislation or 
amendments to existing ones that impact trade before entry into force whic h is in line with Article  2 
(Opportunity to Comment, Information Before Entry into Force, and Consultations) of the TFA.  
Reforms in labour sector  
2.29.  As a country with substantial reliance on foreign workers in labour -intensive sectors, Malaysia 
has also undertaken various initiatives to enhance the working environment by strengthening the 
workers' rights as well as addressing and eradicating forced labour issues in the country.  
2.30.  At the domestic level, Malaysia has amend ed multiple labour legislations and policies to 
protect the rights of the workers in order to comply with the ILO's minimum requirement of the 
international standards and practices. These amendments are also part of the Government's efforts 
in combatting l abour misconduct.  
2.31.  Among the legislation which have been amended are the Employment Act  1955 which came 
into effect on 1  September  2022. The main amendments of the Act include the additional provisions 
on discrimination and the expansion of the Act to cove r all workers irrespective of wages. In addition 
to that, the amendment provides specific clause on forced labour that protect workers against forced 
labour while focusing on the empowerment of workers and employers.  
2.32.  In 2022, Malaysia became the second cou ntry in ASEAN to ratify the ILO Protocol of 2014 to 
the Forced Labour Convention. The ratification has also made Malaysia the member of Alliance  8.7, 
as a pathfinder country that could accelerate efforts towards achieving the 2030 SDG's Target  8.7 
on eradi cating forced labour, end modern slavery and human trafficking, and secure the prohibition 
and elimination of the worst forms of child labour.  
2.33.  To better address the issue of forced labour, Malaysia has formulated the National Action Plan 
on Forced Labour (NAPFL) 2021 -2025 with the technical assistance from the ILO. The Task Force on 
Compliance on Labour Laws and Policy has been developed in order to implement the NAPFL and to 
ensure that the industries are practicing the requisite standards under the exist ing national 
legislations and policies.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  2.34.  Of significance, we wish to register our appreciation to the US for the lifting of the Withhold 
Release Order (WRO) on the largest producers of palm oil and rubber gloves in Malaysia, following 
an extensive review o f their practices. We hope other WTO Members recognize and support 
Malaysia's strong commitment to reform and improve labour rights standards and practices.  
2.35.  We welcome the U.S. Department of Labor's announcement on the project for wage protection 
for wome n and men migrant workers in Malaysia. The initiative will run until 2026, focusing on the 
plantation, manufacturing, and electronics sectors. This initiative will be adopted in parallel to the 
NAPFL.  
Sectoral policies (manufacturing, agricultural and serv ices)  
2.36.  In 2018 , Malaysia put in place the National Policy on Industry  4.0 (Industry4WRD) which 
provides a concerted and comprehensive transformation agenda for the manufacturing sector and 
its related services. The policy is intended to transform and modern ize Malaysia's manufacturing 
sector.  
2.37.  The fourth version of National Automotive Policy (NAP  2020) was launched in 2020 with the 
aim to transform Malaysia's automotive industry, through three pillars namely Next Generation 
Vehicles, Mobility as a Service (Ma aS), and IR4.0.  
2.38.  Under the Twelfth Malaysia Plan, Malaysia aims to energize the manufacturing sector in order 
to sustain Malaysia's resilience and long -term competitiveness, and contribute to leading -edge, 
high-paying job opportunities for Malaysians.  
2.39.  The New Investment Aspirations (NIA) was launched in 2022 to serve as a basis for a 
comprehensive reform of Malaysia's investment policies. The new investment policy based on NIA 
will intensify high technology and innovation which balances economic and env ironmental 
sustainability, consistent with global benchmarks in environmental, social and governance (ESG).  
2.40.  The New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (New IMP 2030) has been developed to succeed the 
Third Industrial Master Plan (2005 to 2020). The New IMP 2030 is expected to be launched in the 
first quarter of 2023 and will set a strategic direction for industrial development that incorporates 
social inclusivity and environmental sustainability.  
2.41.  In the agriculture sector, the implementation of the National Agrof ood Policy from 2011 
until 2020 has increased the value -added of agri -food sector from MYR  35 billion to MYR  51 billion. 
As a continuation, the National Agrofood Policy 2021 -2030 has been formulated with the aim of 
transforming the agri -food sector into a sustainable, resilient and technology -driven industry.  
2.42.  The services sector continues to be the biggest sector in Malaysia's economy, contributing 
more than 57% to total GDP in 2021. Under the Twelfth Plan, the services sector is targeted to grow 
at 5.2% pe r annum, contributing 58.3% to GDP by 2025. Concerted efforts will be undertaken to 
ensure higher adoption of technology to enhance efficiency and productivity within the services 
sector in line with the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint and the National 4IR Policy.  
Intellectual property rights  
2.43.  Within the period of 2018 to 2022, four intellectual property (IP) legislations were updated 
namely the introduction of the new Trademarks Act  2019 and Geographical Indications Act  2022 
together with amendments to the Patents Act  1983 and the Copyright Act  1987.  
2.44.  With regards to IP -related international treaty, Malaysia deposited the instrument of accession 
of the Budapest Treaty and the Marrakesh Treaty on 31  March  2022 and these treaties entered into 
force in Mala ysia on 30  June 2022.  
Efforts to promote environmental sustainability  
2.45.  Malaysia has set a long -term direction to address the issue of climate change and achieve 
sustainable growth. We have updated our pledge to reduce greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions 
throu gh "Nationally Determined Contribution" (NDC) under the Paris Agreement. This is expected to WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  reduce the intensity of GHG emissions across the economy by 45% (based on GDP) in 2030 
compared to its level of 2005.  
2.46.  The Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) Ce rtification Scheme was made mandatory from 
1 January  2020 to ensure the country's palm oil industry produces Certified Sustainable Palm Oil 
(CSPO). This has further enhanced the Malaysian palm oil industry's efforts towards becoming more 
sustainable throug hout the supply chain.  
2.47.  In 2021, the Government launched the Malaysia Plastics Sustainability Roadmap 2021 -2030. 
The roadmap aims to transform the whole plastic value chain through having more sustainable 
practices and adopting circular economy principles t hroughout plastic lifecycle.  
2.48.  The National Mineral and Industry Transformation Plan 2021 -2030 is a 10 -year framework 
which provides inclusive planning to develop the mineral industry comprehensively and in an 
integrated manner at every level of the value c hain.  
Conclusion  
2.49.  In summation, Malaysia remains steadfast in developing a resilient supply chain framework 
for its various sectors, taking into account lessons learnt during the pandemic. Malaysia is working 
with ASEAN and APEC economies to strengthen sup ply chain resilience by facilitating effective 
cross-border movement and international cooperation.  
2.50.  On a final note, as one of the founding WTO Members, Malaysia reaffirms our commitments 
to uphold the multilateral trading system. We will continue to cons tructively contribute on all fronts 
in order to facilitate the WTO's ability to address the current global issues and challenges.  
2.51.  As we have already provided responses to the Members' advanced written questions received 
by the deadline of 4  January  2023 a nd many of the questions raised by others in their late 
submissions after the deadline also touch on similar topics, we look forward to hearing constructive 
feedback from Members.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  
3.1.  I would like to start by thanking Ambassador  Chambovey, Secretary -General Ishak, and 
Members of the WTO for extending heartfelt condolences to me and my country. At times of 
devastation like this, it makes you stronger to feel the support of friends and know that they are 
there for you. I would also like to thank our friends and neighbours who sent their search and rescue 
teams immediately after the earthquakes to help Türkiye.  
3.2.  Returning to my statement, let me first warmly welcome the Malaysian delegation, led by 
H.E. Mr Datuk  Isham  Ishak , Secretary General of the Ministry of International Trade and Industry of 
Malaysia  (MITI) . 
3.3.  I think the composition of the delegation, which includes officials not only from MITI, but also 
from seven different ministries and government agencies, is a clear  demonstration of the importance 
that Malaysia attaches to this exercise, to the WTO and to the multilateral trading system. For me, 
it is an honour and pleasure to serve as the discussant in this eighth  Trade Policy Review of Malaysia.  
3.4.  Before going into s ubstance, I have to admit that my job as the discussant was relatively easy 
as I found two excellent Reports already prepared by the Secretariat and Government of Malaysia. 
So, I would be remiss if I do not thank you for the preparation of these comprehens ive Reports. It 
is not an easy work and I know it very well, mainly due to the upcoming Trade Policy Review of 
Türkiye.  
3.5.  When we look at the history of Malaysia since its independence, what we see is a successful 
diversification story of an economy. It went  through a deep transformation process, from an 
agriculture and commodity -based economy to a robust manufacturing and service powerhouse in 
the region and this has helped Malaysia to become a leading exporter of electrical appliances, parts 
and components.  
3.6.  Let me first share some information and observations on the economic overview of Malaysia 
which are very relevant to its trade outlook.  
3.7.  Malaysia is an upper middle -income country with a GDP per  capita of more than USD  11,000 
in 2021 and a population of almost 33  million in 2022.  
3.8.  Between 2017 and 2019, the Malaysian economy recorded an average GDP growth rate of 
above 4%. However, this growth trend was curtailed by t he onset of COVID -19 pandemic which led 
to a contraction in the GDP in 2020. But the growth resumed again in 2021. And in 2022, as a result 
of the reopening of the economy, it is reported that the country's GDP growth is likely to exceed 
earlier projection s of between 6.5% and 7%.  
3.9.  During the pandemic, Malaysia reacted swiftly and boldly to avoid large economic damage. 
Sizeable fiscal stimulus packages have been introduced and monetary policy has been eased. Like 
in many countries, the pandemic hit hard the most vulnerable in the labour market, notably women 
and young people. In this regard, the Twelfth Malaysia Plan 2021 -2025, which was introduced with 
the objective of a "Prosperous, Inclusive, Sustainable Malaysia", incorporates specific chapters for 
women' s empowerment in particular and inclusivity in general. This step is a clear sign of the political 
will for further inclusivity in the country.  
3.10.  The Malaysia Twelfth Plan which was announced in 2021, is based on three broad key themes: 
resetting the econom y, strengthening security, wellbeing, and inclusivity, and advancing 
sustainability.  
3.11.  The services sector continued to be the biggest sector in the economy, contributing more 
than 57% to total GDP in 2021. The services sector is driven by the traditional se rvices subsector 
while the modern services subsector has also expanded. In addition, e -commerce activities have 
also contributed to growth as more Malaysians turned to online platforms to purchase goods and 
services.  
3.12.  Tourism plays an important role in the  economy. Malaysia remained a net exporter of travel 
services. In 2019, travel services generated MYR  82 billion which is equivalent to 48.3% of total WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  services exports. The number of tourist arrivals was 26 million in 2019. Global and national 
restrictions  put in place during the pandemic resulted in  a sharp drop in international visitors, 
declining to 4.3  million in 2020 and 134,000 in 2021 before bouncing back to around 3  million 
in 2022.  
3.13.  Malaysian Government aims to be a hub for halal food products and a  gateway for Islamic 
finance and adopted various policy tools and regulations in these areas.  
3.14.  During the review period, labour market developments took place in several areas. The 
minimum wage was standardized in 2018 across the country, followed by an in crease in 2020. On 
1 May 2022, a minimum wage of MYR  1,500 has been introduced for some categories of employers 
and from 1  July 2023, the minimum wage of MYR  1,500 will be implemented across the country.  
3.15.  The manufacturing sector accounted for 24% of GDP in  2021 and during the review period, it 
remained the biggest contributor to exports. The sector was heavily impacted by the pandemic 
in 2020, and contracted by 2.6%. As the restrictions were eased and manufacturing activities 
resumed in 2021, the sector's p erformance improved significantly with a growth of 14.9%. National 
Policy on Industry  4.0 launched in 2018 aims to transform the sector by an advanced digitization, 
advanced manufacturing technologies, and efficient resource allocation to infuse higher val ue-added 
manufacturing processes.  
3.16.  Agriculture and mining and quarrying are other important sectors for GDP, employment, and 
exports of the country.  
3.17.  With regards to sustainability, climate change and deforestation, Malaysia has introduced 
various policies a nd initiatives, such as changes in the palm oil industry regulations, action plan to 
transform the whole plastic value chain, national mineral industry transformation plan and legislation 
in the forestry.  
3.18.  According to the World  Bank, Malaysia is one of the  most open economies in the world with a 
trade to GDP ratio over 130%  since 2010. Its openness to the world and to trade and investment 
has been instrumental in job creation and income growth, with about 40% of jobs in Malaysia linked 
to export activities.   
3.19.  Malaysia is considered a good market for doing business and was ranked 12th globally on the 
World  Bank's Ease of Doing Business 2021 Report. Of course, naturally, there will always be room 
for improvement in the global business environment.  
3.20.  Secondly, I w ould like to touch upon some developments in trade policies of Malaysia during 
the review period.  
3.21.  Malaysia is an active Member of the WTO and makes important contribution to the work of 
the Organization. Malaysia has joined the Joint Statement Initiatives on electronic commerce, 
investment facilitation for development and MSMEs.  
3.22.  During the period under review (2017 -2022), Malaysia's trade policies were based on the 
priorities outlined in the Eleventh Malaysia Plan (2016 -2020) and the Twelfth Malaysia Plan 
(2021-2025). These priorities include accelerating technology adoption and innovation, enhancing 
connectivity and transport infrastructure, and improving the standard of living to achieve a balanced 
and sustainable growth.  
3.23.  During the review period, Malaysia  introduced various initiatives related to trade, such as 
review of non -tariff measures, revision of regulatory rules, conduct of productivity improvement 
programs, improvement of business ecosystem, support to SMEs, investment promotion and 
environmental sustainability measures. Malaysia has fully implemented its TFA commitments from 
February  2017 to June  2021.  
3.24.  Around 99% of Malaysia's tariff lines carry ad  valorem rates. 74.3% of all tariff lines face 
ad valorem rates of 10% or less and the simple average  ad valorem bound tariff is 15.6%. Malaysia's 
applied rates, excluding ad  valorem equivalents decreased slightly from 2017 to 2022, mainly due 
to expansion of the Information Technology Agreement (ITA). Around 57% of the tariff lines are WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  duty-free on an MF N basis. Almost all applied MFN rates are lower than their bound rates. The live 
swine and poultry, poultry meat, liquid milk and cream, eggs and round cabbage are subject to 
TRQs.  
3.25.  Malaysia provided notifications on many subjects covered by the WTO rules during the review 
period although improvement of their coverage and timeliness can be considered by the authorities.  
3.26.  Malaysia had a total of 25  anti-dumping measures in force in June  2022, mainly covering iron 
and steel products.  
3.27.  During the review p eriod, Malaysia's merchandise trade with economies in its region covered 
more than 70% of its total trade. As of 2021, 25.9% of total merchandise trade was conducted with 
trading partners from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Malaysia's main 
individual trading partners remained China, Singapore, the European  Union, and the United  States.  
3.28.  In addition to wide -ranging regional integration efforts under ASEAN, Malaysia has a good 
record in terms of free trade agreements. Malaysia has conclude d seven bilateral FTAs with Australia, 
Chile, India, Japan, Pakistan, New  Zealand, and Türkiye; and regional FTAs such as ASEAN Free 
Trade Area (AFTA); Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for the Trans -Pacific Partnership 
(CPTPP ); Regional Comprehensiv e Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP); as well as ASEAN's 
FTAs with China, Australia, and New  Zealand, India, Japan, Republic of Korea and Hong  Kong,  China. 
More recently, Malaysia has also taken the position to participate in all pillars of Indo -Pacific  
Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF).  
3.29.  Lastly, let me briefly share with you the summary of topics raised in Members questions.  
3.30.  Malaysia received more than 300  questions and I believe that this number reflects interest 
among the Membership in its econo mic and trade policies.  
3.31.  As Secretary -General Ishak mentioned, these questions were generally related to specific 
economic, monetary and fiscal policies during the pandemic, labour policies, empowerment of 
women and MSMEs, regional trade agreements, partic ipation in JSIs, outstanding notifications, 
investment framework, custom procedures and valuation, TRQ regime, import tariffs, restrictions, 
licensing and taxation of some products, export support, export taxes, SPS measures, standards 
and technical regula tions, competition policy, government -linked companies, government 
procurement, IP rights, manufacturing, agriculture, and services sectors.  
3.32.  Some Members also sought clarification on supply chain resilience, youth empowerment, tax 
reform, anti -dumping measures, export restrictions, transportation, fisheries and energy sectors.  
3.33.  In conclusion, I would like to congratulate and thank Malaysia for its contributions to the WTO 
and wish them a very successful Trade Policy Review. Looking forward to a fruitful meeting today.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  
CHILE  
4.1.  Chile saluda a la delegación de Malasia, encabezada por S .E. Sr. Datuk  Isham  Ishak, Secretario 
General del Ministerio de Comercio Internacional e Industria, y felicita a este país por el trabajo 
realiza do desde su último examen, así como el buen desempeño de su comercio internacional 
durante este período.  
4.2.  Saludamos también a S .E. Embajador Syahril  Syazli  Ghazali y a todo el equipo de la Misión de 
Malasia ante la OMC. Reconocemos el trabajo realizado tan to por Malasia como por la Secretaría en 
la elaboración de sus respectivos informes, los que agradecemos, y agradecemos también al 
ponente, Embajador  Acarsoy de Türkiye , por su presentación. Aprovechamos la ocasión para 
manifestar nuestro pesar y solidarid ad en la trágica situación que Türkiye  está teniendo que 
enfrentar por los recientes sismos.  
4.3.  Chile ve en Malasia un socio natural por el interés compartido en un sistema multilateral que 
posibilite que el comercio internacional continúe teniendo un import ante rol en el desarrollo de 
nuestros países.  
4.4.  Nuestras relaciones comerciales internacionales están enmarcadas por el Tratado de Libre 
Comercio suscrito en 2010 y vigente desde abril  de 2012, el que es bastante profundo en materia 
de bienes, con provision es en reglas de origen, procedimientos aduaneros, barreras técnicas al 
comercio, medidas sanitarias y fitosanitarias, defensa comercial, salvaguardias, cooperación, 
transparencia y solución de controversias. Además, contiene una "cláusula evolutiva" para n egociar 
capítulos sobre el comercio de servicios e inversiones.  
4.5.  Nuestras relaciones se enmarcan, además, en la vinculación de Chile con ASEAN, a partir de 
nuestra adhesión al Tratado de Amistad y Cooperación con dicha asociación en 2016, el que 
consolidó décadas de acercamiento con cada uno de sus Estados miembros, así como con la 
Asociación en su conjunto. También lo hace en la participación común en APEC y, más 
recientemente, en el CPTPP.  
4.6.  Esta cooperación también se extiende a la OMC, en la que, como se ñala el informe de la 
Secretaría, Malasia es un Miembro activo. Dentro de este marco, Chile y Malasia han coincidido en 
visiones comunes, reflejadas en su participación en diversas instancias plurilaterales como las 
iniciativas relativas al comercio electr ónico, pequeñas y medianas empresas (pymes) y facilitación 
de inversiones para el desarrollo, que tenemos el honor de co -facilitar junto con la República de 
Corea. Al respecto, me permito destacar que Malasia ha sido un participante muy proactivo y 
constru ctivo. En materia de las negociaciones sobre agricultura, Chile y Malasia son miembros del 
grupo Cairns con otros 17  miembros que en su conjunto representan más del 27% de las 
exportaciones agrícolas mundiales.  
4.7.  Con respecto a los informes presentados, obse rvamos que Malasia continúa siendo una 
economía orientada al exterior, con un buen desempeño en su comercio internacional y promotora 
de la inversión. Resaltamos también que, de acuerdo con el informe preparado por la Secretaría, el 
marco de su política co mercial se mantuvo estable durante el período examinado, lo que 
consideramos esencial para generar un entorno confiable y atractivo.  
4.8.  Del informe del Gobierno, observamos con particular interés las iniciativas y políticas 
relacionadas con pymes; emprendimi ento, incluyendo el emprendimiento social; sostenibilidad 
medioambiental; y el empoderamiento de las mujeres y jóvenes.  
4.9.  En consecuencia, para este examen hemos formulado preguntas sobre el portal MalaysiaBiz; 
la iniciativa relacionada con emprendimiento s ocial; la incorporación a la legislación nacional de 
acuerdos regionales y las decisiones adoptadas por sus órganos administrativos; y el 
empoderamiento de mujeres y jóvenes. Al respecto, agradecemos las respuestas proporcionadas 
por Malasia.  
4.10.  Coincidimos en la relevancia de estas materias, también para el sistema multilateral de 
comercio internacional, y esperamos profundizar el trabajo conjunto en la OMC sobre las mismas. WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  Consideramos que instancias como el Diálogo Informal sobre la Contaminación Producid a por los 
Plásticos y el Comercio de Plásticos Ambientalmente Sostenible; los Debates Estructurados sobre el 
Comercio y la Sostenibilidad Ambiental (TESSD) y el Grupo de Trabajo Informal sobre Comercio y 
Género podrían brindar oportunidades propicias para ello.  
4.11.  Agradecemos también la información proporcionada en el punto  6.4 del informe del Gobierno 
sobre el "Desarrollo del sector halal". Continuaremos trabajando a nivel bilateral para profundizar la 
cooperación entre Chile y Malasia en este ámbito, ya que como saben somos un país con una 
marcada vocación agroalimentaria, por lo que nos interesa de manera especial poder explorar 
mecanismos de diferenciación de nuestras exportaciones.  
4.12.  Confiamos en que Malasia, gracias a su estabilidad y su compromiso de mantener abiertos 
sus mercados, continuará la consecución de los objeti vos fijados en su décimo  segundo Plan, 
orientados, entre otros, al fortalecimiento de la seguridad, el bienestar y la inclusión, así como la 
promoción de la sostenibilidad y a través de ello, en la senda de una recuperación económica 
sostenible.  
4.13.  Finalmente , le deseamos a la delegación de Malasia mucho éxito en este examen.  
CANADA  
4.14.  On behalf of Canada, I would like to welcome the Malaysian delegation, led by Mr Datuk 
Isham  Ishak, Secretary General of the Ministry of International Trade and Industry Malaysia, to this 
eighth  Trade Policy Review of Malaysia since the country joined the WTO in 1995. We also thank the 
Government of Malaysia and the Secretariat for the high -quality of the Reports submitted.  
4.15.  We would also like to extend our thanks to the di scussant, my friend Ambassador  Acarsoy, 
and I join others in expressing my countr y's and my personal sorrow for the tragic events that 
passed in  Türkiye yesterday.  
4.16.  I would like to congratulate Malaysia on its improved trade performance during the review 
period, despite challenges such as global market uncertainty caused by the COVID -19 pandemic and 
Russia n Federation 's unprovoked and illegal invasion of Ukraine.  
4.17.  The April  2022 IMF Article  IV visit to Malaysia confirmed that Malaysia's economy is showing 
signs of a gradual but steady recovery, owing to the government's impressive vaccine rollout and 
the timely and coordinated implementation of multi -pronged support measures.  
4.18.  The OECD, in March  2022, also noted that prior to the pandemic, Malaysia undertook a series 
of vigorous reforms, ranging from regulatory framework improvement to economic digitalization, 
with the goal of increasing productivity. While the pandemic has inevitably slowed reform efforts in 
many countries, including Malaysia, improving the bus iness climate has become even more critical. 
This will be essential in order to achieve a strong recovery, accelerate digitalization, and implement 
a new working environment that combines productivity and sanitary precautions.  
4.19.  As set out in Reports for thi s TPR, Malaysia is continuing make positive progress via its Twelfth 
Malaysia Plan (2021 -2025) to reset its economy, strengthen economic security and inclusivity as 
well as advance sustainability. In line with this Plan, Canada is encouraged by the range o f 
trade-specific initiatives that Malaysia is pursuing, including launching the National Trade Blueprint 
to increase Malaysia's trade competitiveness and improve Malaysia's position as an exporting 
country. We also take note of Malaysia 's National Mineral Industry Transformation Plan 2021 -2030 
and hope it will facilitate investments from foreign investors in various areas of the mineral supply 
chain.  
4.20.  With respect to our work at the WTO, we welcome Malaysia 's support for the Buenos  Aires 
Declaration on Trad e and Women 's Economic Empowerment. Canada would also encourage Malaysia 
to join the WTO  Agreement  on Government Procurement and the Joint Statement Initiative on 
Services Domestic Regulation, engage in the work of the Trade and Environmental Sustainabilit y 
Structured Discussions (TESSD) and move forward with ratifying the Agreement on Fisheries 
Subsidies. Canada would also invite Malaysia to join the Multiparty Interim Appeal -Arbitration 
Arrangement. Canada takes note of Malaysia 's good record in notificat ions, but we would suggest WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  additional effort is required in certain areas, such as for agricultural market access, to bring 
notifications fully up to date.  
4.21.  Canada congratulates Malaysia on the entry into force of the Comprehensive and Progressive 
Agreement  for Trans -Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) on 29 November  2022. We are confident that the 
addition of Malaysia as the ninth  party to the CPTPP will deepen economic integration, expand the 
Agreement's economic coverage, and increase the mutual benefits enjoyed by the parties.  
4.22.  We also look forward to exploring how best to further deepen the Canada -Malaysia bilateral, 
trade and investment relationship as part of the continued partnership between Canada and ASEAN 
and the negotiations on a Canada -ASEAN Free Trade Agreement.  
4.23.  To conclude, I wish Malaysia a successful review and look forward to a constructive exchange 
of views on all aspects of Malaysia's trade policy.  
SINGAPORE  
4.24.  Let me begin by extending a very warm welcome to the delegation from Mal aysia, led by 
Secretary -General Datuk  Isham  Ishak. We would also like to express our appreciation to the Chair 
Ambassador Didier  Chambovey, the discussant Ambassador Alparslan  Acarsoy (Türkiye), as well as 
the Secretariat for their insightful Reports and s tatements. Let me also echo the heartfelt sympathy 
expressed earlier to Türkiye for the devastating earthquake , our thoughts and prayers are with the 
people Türkiye . Allow me to make three points.  
4.25.  First, Singapore and Malaysia are close neighbours with a l ong and shared history. Under 
British colonial rule, Singapore and Malaysia were part of the Straits Settlement and for almost two 
years, Singapore was part of the Federation of Malaysia until our independence on 9 August 1965. 
In addition to historical ti es, our two peoples enjoy deep and long -standing kinship ties. In the words 
of Singapore 's founding Prime  Minister Mr  Lee Kuan Yew, it is "a people, connected by geography, 
economics and ties of kinship ". More recently, during the official visit by Malaysi an Prime  Minister 
and Minister of Finance , Dato' Seri Anwar  Ibrahim , to Singapore, Singapore 's Prime  Minister Mr  Lee 
Hsien  Loong characteri zed it as a "relationship quite unlike any other ". In a similar vein, 
Prime Minister  Anwar described the relationship  as "two great countries and two great neighbours ". 
These strong historical, economic and people -to-people ties have underpinned bilateral relations and 
provided a strong foundation for cooperation. For example, throughout the COVID -19 pandemic, 
Singapore and Malaysia steadfastly supported each other and worked closely to maintain the flow of 
essential goods and services, and the safe movement of peoples across our borders, particularly, 
through the Johor -Singapore Causeway and the Tuas Second Link, which a verage 300,000  crossings 
per day. The completion of the Johor  Bahru -Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link, which is 
expected to commence operations by end -2026, will further enhance connectivity, foster 
people -to-people ties and generate long -term and mutual economic and social benefits.  
4.26.  Second, we look forward to deepening our economic relationship, and expanding cooperation 
in new and emerging areas. Emerging from the pandemic in 2022, Malaysia and Singapore continue 
to be each other 's secon d largest trading partner, with total bilateral trade amounting to 
USD 116 billion. Singapore also continues to be Malaysia 's top foreign investor, with stock 
investments of USD  41.7 billion in a wide range of sectors such as manufacturing, aerospace, 
electricals and electronics. Singapore was also Malaysia 's top investment destination, with 
USD 28.8 billion in stock investments in areas such as manufacturing, construction, wholesale , and 
retail trade.  
4.27.  Looking ahead, Singapore and Malaysia are committed to  work together to reap the benefits 
of the fourth  Industrial Revolution, by focus ing on new areas such as the digital economy, and the 
green economy and to address current challenges like supply chain disruptions and food insecurity. 
In this connection, du ring P rime Minister  Anwar 's recent official visit to Singapore, both sides signed 
two Framework Agreements and one MOU on digital economy, green economy, data protection, and 
cybersecurity. We will continue to identify more areas of cooperation, including opportunities in 
energy, carbon credits and carbon capture storage.  
4.28.  Third, as founding Members of the WTO, we share a common interest in maintaining and 
strengthening the rules -based multilateral trading system. Both our countries are committed to WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  improve  our trade practices and develop stable bilateral trade flows. One important area is to ensure 
timely notifications of trade measures, such as export restrictions, prior to their implementation. At 
the regional level, Singapore and Malaysia are close partn ers in ASEAN, which has played a pivotal 
role in facilitating greater regional economic integration. As the Permanent Shepherd for the 
High-Level Task Force on ASEAN Community 's Post -2025 Vision, Malaysia plays a key role in shaping 
the long -term direction  of the ASEAN Economic Community, including addressing challenges such 
as supply chain resilience, digitali zation, and sustainability. Singapore welcomes Malaysia 's 
ratification of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the Comprehensiv e 
and Progressive Agreement for Trans -Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) in 2022. This will further deepen 
regional economic integration and, as Malaysia aptly described in its Government Report, "serve as 
building blocks for wider multilateral trade liberalisati on". Finally, Singapore commends Malaysia for 
its active participation in the various Joint Statement Initiatives on (a)  e-commerce, (b)  investment 
facilitation for developmen t, and (c)  micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Malaysia has 
also ratifie d the Agreement on Trade Facilitation and the Commitment on Expansion of Trade in 
Information Technology Products (ITA2). We also encourage Malaysia to consider acceding to the 
Government Procurement Agreement (GPA), since it has taken on specific commitme nts on 
government procurement under the CPTPP, which are identical or surpassing those in the GPA.  
4.29.  As Singapore 's second Prime  Minister Mr  Goh Chok Tong, had empha sized in 1998, Singapore 
and Malaysia should work towards reali zing the full potential of bi lateral relations, based on the 
principle of "prosper thy neighbour ".  
4.30.  In conclusion, my delegation looks forward to continue working closely with the Permanent 
Mission of Malaysia in the WTO, ably led by Ambassador Syahril  Syazli  Ghazali and wish Malaysia 
every success for its eight TPR. 
HONG  KONG,  CHINA  
4.31.  I would like to start by extending a warm welcome to the delegation of Malaysia led by 
Mr Datuk  Isham  Ishak, Secretary General of its Ministry of International Trade and Industry. I would 
also like to thank the discussant Ambassador Alparslan  Acarsoy of Türkiye for his insightful remarks, 
and the Secretariat for preparing the comprehensive Report.  
4.32.  I would take the opportunity to join others in expressing my sincere condolences to th e people 
of Türkiye for their losses in the natural disaster that happened earlier this week.  
4.33.  Hong Kong,  China (HKC) and Malaysia have long been enjoying harmonious bilateral trade 
and economic relations. In 2021, Malaysia was Hong  Kong, China' s 9th larges t partner in 
merchandise trade and the 11th largest partner in services trade. On the other hand, 
Hong Kong, China  was Malaysia 's 6th largest trading partner and the 4th largest export market.  
4.34.  Our bilateral trade in goods amounted to US D 26.5 billion in 2 021, a 5% growth despite the 
global downturn brought by the COVID -19 pandemic. And with the easing of the pandemic situation, 
a further 12.4% growth was recorded in the first three quarters of 2022.  
4.35.  Meanwhile, the ASEAN -HKC Free Trade Agreement and the rel ated Investment Agreement 
have entered into force in full since February  2021. We look forward to further strengthening our 
economic ties with ASEAN, including Malaysia, by facilitating two -way flows of goods, services , and 
investment.  
4.36.  We have the followin g observations on Malaysia 's trade policy regime.  
4.37.  First, we are glad to note that Malaysia has fully implemented the Agreement on Trade 
Facilitation since June  2021 and fulfilled its transparency obligations. We are encouraged by 
Malaysia 's continued effor ts to streamline its fully automated customs procedures through its 
National Single Window.   
4.38.  On tariff, we appreciate that almost all of Malaysia 's tariff lines carry ad valorem  rates and 
around 80% of them are bounded. The simple average applied tariff r ate was reduced from 7.5% 
in 2017 to 7.1% in 2022. However, we note that Malaysia is still applying non -ad valorem  duties 
for 119 tariff lines of agricultural products and that there is apparently escalation in the tariff WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  structure: the average tariff rates are 3.5% on raw materials, 6.3% on semi -processed products 
and 8.7% on fully processed goods. We would encourage Malaysia to  continue to enhance its tariff 
regime by converting the non -ad valorem rates to ad valorem ones and reducing its tariff escalation.  
4.39.  On agriculture, we notice that Malaysia has been providing various forms of support for the 
purposes of encouraging the use of technology and adopting sustainable practices. To facilitate 
Members ' review of such support measures, we would encourage Malaysia to provide its outstanding 
notifications to the Committee on Agriculture as soon as possible.   
4.40.  On ser vices, we are glad to see that, notwithstanding the impact brought about by the 
COVID -19 pandemic, the telecommunications, finance, and insurance services sectors in Malaysia 
continued to grow robustly. We would encourage Malaysia to consider further liber alizing its services 
trade regime for foreign investment, for instance, by removing or reducing foreign equity limitations 
in other services sectors such as tourism and maritime transport.  
4.41.  Malaysia has always been a valuable trade partner of Hong  Kong,  China, and our ties go far 
beyond just trade, we look forward to enhancing our bilateral ties and cooperation in all areas. 
Lastly, we thank Malaysia for their answers to our written questions and we are now studying them 
internally. I wish Malaysia a fruitfu l and successful Trade Policy Review.  
THAILAND  
4.42.  Thailand would like to associate itself with the ASEAN statement to be delivered by 
Ambassador Dandy  Iswara of Indonesia.  
4.43.  We thank H .E. Mr Datuk  Isham  Ishak, Secretary General of Ministry of International Trad e 
and Industry of Malaysia for his Report and Ambassador Alparslan  Acarsoy from Türkiye for his sharp 
and thought -provoking assessment of Malaysia 's trade policies. I would also like to join others in 
expressing my heartfelt condolences to the people of Tü rkiye on the devastating earthquake. I would 
also like to thank the  Secretariat for the comprehensive Report.  
4.44.  I do not understand why Thailand was assigned to sit at the end of the table, while Thailand 
and Malaysia are so close. Given this, I could just s imply say "Distance makes the heart grow fonder ". 
4.45.  Thailand and Malaysia have enjoyed long -lasting and cordial trade relations. Despite the fact 
that our official diplomatic relation has begun for 65 years, our fond relationship, in fact, went back 
in time for several hundreds of years. The two countries share long border and actively engage in 
the exchanges of goods, services, and people. In 2022, Malaysia is Thailand 's fourth  largest trade 
partner in the world with the value of our bilateral trade of USD  27 billion, falling behind only the 
United  States, China, and Japan, which are the three largest economies in the world, while Malaysia 
is the 36th largest. Conversely, Thailand is Malaysia 's 7th largest trade partner globally and 3rd within 
ASEAN.  
4.46.  Despite all the above positive aspects, I could not help but observe that, in the past 24  years, 
Thailand registers trade deficit with Malaysia for 23  years. Crude oil and natural gas are two main 
imports from Malaysia to Thailand. More recently, however, electron ic integrated circuits and 
computer and parts have gained more prominence. This is not a complaint from us. Rather, it is 
quite the opposite. We referred to the trade deficit because we would like to praise Malaysia for its 
fast-growing high -tech industrie s. Another testimony to this success is the export value of electrical 
machinery and equipment, including integrated circuits of Malaysia that has surpassed 
USD 100 billion mark since 2021.  
4.47.  Thailand and Malaysia have collaborated at many levels in numerous fora, including the WTO 
and we praise Malaysia for its active participation. At regional level, Thailand and Malaysia are 
founding members of ASEAN and APEC and are original parties of the Regional Comprehensive 
Economic Partnership (RCEP). Both c ountries also work together in many bilateral fora where, most 
recently, both sides have agreed to achieve the bilateral trade target of USD  30 billion by 2025 and 
to expedite the completion of pending infrastructure projects for border areas and explore f urther 
collaboration in digital economy. Malaysian tourists also account for the highest share of foreign 
tourists entering Thailand in 2022.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  4.48.  Thailand commends Malaysia for implementing various policies to reform its economy and to 
drive digital transforma tion, technology upgrading, and automation of the manufacturing and related 
services sectors. Fintech industry is also another promising sector in Malaysia and we believe that it 
is one of the sectors where Thailand and Malaysia can cooperate.  
4.49.  Setting all positive notes aside, we would like to mention some areas of our mutual trade that 
could be improved. That is, first and foremost, the border trade, where Malaysia has for a long time 
been our number one border trade partner, accounting for around 40% of t he total value of 
Thailand 's border trade with all our neighbouring countries. Despite many consultations, some 
problems remain concerning the infrastructure and customs procedures, including the requirements 
for obtaining international circulation permit.  Another concern relates to the import licensing system 
for processed food and the monopoly of rice imports. As Malaysia is an important market for 
Thailand, we hope that Malaysia gives more attention to these concerns.  
4.50.  In closing, Thailand is pleased to p articipate in the eighth TPR of Malaysia today. We would 
like to express our sincere thanks to Ambassador Syahril Syazli Ghazali as well as the Former 
Ambassador Rashidi  Said and his Geneva team for amicable and positive working environment 
between our two  missions. We thank Malaysia for replying to our questions and we wish Malaysia 
every success in its eighth Trade Policy Review.  
UNITED  KINGDOM  
4.51.  Let me warmly welcome the delegation of Malaysia to Geneva here today, led by our friend, 
Datuk  Isham  Ishak, Se cretary General of the Ministry of International Trade and Industry.  
4.52.  Let me also thank the Government of Malaysia and the WTO Secretariat for their Reports. We 
are all grateful to the many -hatted Ambassador Chambovey for donning another by stepping in to 
act as Chair for this review.  
4.53.  May I thank our Discussant, Ambassador Acarsoy for his insightful comments and take the 
opportunity to extend to him, and to all our friends at the Turkish Mission, our sincere condolences 
for the human tragedy unfolding foll owing Monday 's earthquake. As he will know, British search and 
rescue experts have already been deployed and the Union flag flew at half -mast at our Embassy and 
Consulates across Türkiye yesterday. As a multilateral community, this tragedy reminds us all t oo 
keenly of the need for us to come together in these heart -breaking moments. As is the Malaysian 
national motto, "unity is strength ". 
4.54.  Returning to the business of this review, let me start by commending Malaysia 's strong and 
resilient economic growth ove r this review period. Malaysia 's aspiration to become a high -income 
country, by the time of their next TPR in 2028, is already producing positive results under the 
ambitious Twelfth Malaysia Plan, based on themes of resetting the economy, strengthening sec urity, 
wellbeing and advancing sustainability.  
4.55.  Malaysia is the UK 's second  largest trading partner in Southeast Asia – with total trade 
reaching almost GBP 6 billion  in the four quarters to Q3 of 2022 and UK exports increasing by just 
under 18% in the las t year. We are also pleased to have established the UK -Malaysia Joint 
Committee on Bilateral Trade and Investment Cooperation in 2020, to promote trade and investment 
between our two great nations, and demonstrating our ongoing commitment to the Indo -Pacific 
region.  
4.56.  The initiative was upgraded to a Ministerial -led Joint Economic Trade Committee last 
November. We look forward to continuing to build economic cooperation between our two countries 
under this Committee, as well as more broadly through our dialo gue partner status in ASEAN.  
4.57.  We are also pleased to stand as Malaysia 's ninth largest foreign investor, with a strong 
corporate footprint in Malaysia with over 200  British companies invested in a wide variety of sectors. 
Education is at the heart of our r elationship. There are five UK university branch campuses in 
Malaysia, as well as the tens of thousands of young Malaysians attending schools and university in 
the UK, and we stand ready to support Malaysia 's ambition to become a regional education hub.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  4.58.  We are also delighted that Malaysia has invested so significantly into the UK, with inward 
investments in 2020 valued at GBP 780 million, representing an increase of almost 230% from the 
previous year.  
4.59.  And, of course, our flourishing bilateral ties also ext end to Geneva. We are grateful for 
Malaysia 's active participation and engagement in the Investment Facilitation for Development, 
MSME and E -commerce Joint Initiatives. Through these initiatives, we share a commitment to 
delivering for global businesses an d consumers. In this context, let me encourage Malaysia to 
consider joining the initiative on Services Domestic Regulation, where businesses are set to benefit 
by up to USD 150 billion  globally per year, despite the best efforts of some who purport to spea k for 
the developing world.  
4.60.  More broadly, our governments are working together on critical modern issues such as climate 
and forced labour. Indeed, my UN  DPR has been in Kuala  Lumpur this week discussing human rights 
issues with our Malaysian partners.  
4.61.  Net-zero planning and green energy are shared priority issues for the UK and Malaysia on 
green trade. We signed the UK -Malaysia Climate Partnership MoU in July  2022, supporting greater 
technical assistance and knowledge sharing, and we will continue to work with government 
departments and agencies at all levels in support of our shared climate goals.  
4.62.  On forced labour, we welcomed Malaysia 's ratification of the ILO 's Forced Labour Convention 
last year and remain committed to working together to deliver ou r shared goal of ending modern 
slavery and coercive labour practices.  We will continue to support Malaysia 's work to deliver its 
National Action Plan through exchange of expertise and engagement across government, civil society 
and industry.  
4.63.  Also commendable is Malaysia 's engagement in Trade and Gender, an issue dear to the heart 
of my Minister, as Minister for both Business and Trade and Equalities, with clear efforts being made 
in Malaysia 's 2022 budget for women -led MSMEs and a specific commitme nt in the Twelfth Malaysia 
Plan to ensure further opportunities for female entrepreneurs and access to decision -making roles.  
4.64.  But, of course, there is always more we can do to strengthen our relationship.  
4.65.  In our advance written questions, the UK sought to  understand more about Malaysia 's trade 
policies and practices regarding government procurement, government -linked companies and 
tendering provisions, sustainable manufacturing practices, and excise duties.  
4.66.  We particularly encourage Malaysia to continue op ening its legal services sector, including 
business services, to competition and investment and to view this, as we do, as a reali zable economic 
benefit. The opening of legal services will support Malaysian corporations that are seeking to 
globali ze and re quire specialist legal advice in Malaysia, and should promote the development of 
Malaysia into a legal hub within ASEAN.  
4.67.  We are grateful to Malaysia for their written responses and look forward to continuing to work 
together to address these important iss ues. 
4.68.  To conclude, we are grateful to colleagues from Kuala  Lumpur for their attendance here today, 
and we wish Malaysia a successful Trade Policy Review and continuing success in progressing their 
Twelfth Malaysia Plan, with the UK as a close partner.  
JAPAN 
4.69.  Japan warmly welcomes the distinguished delegation of Malaysia, headed by Mr Datuk  Isham 
Ishak, Secretary General, Ministry of International Trade and Industry and guided by Ambassador 
Syahril Syazli Ghazali . Our appreciation goes to Malaysia and to the WTO Secretariat, as well as to 
the discussant, Ambassador Alparslan  Acarsoy, for his professional devotion and insights in the most 
difficult period. Our sympathy and thoughts are with the Turkish people, and Japan wishes to be of 
help as Türkiye did when Japan faced disasters in the past.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  4.70.  Japan and Malaysia have maintained and developed friendly economic relations over the 
years. Amidst the growing importance of a rule -based international order, Japan would like to further 
promote cooperation with Malaysi a as a strategic partner toward the realization of the "Free and 
Open Indo -Pacific ". 
4.71.  Starting with a general observation, Japan acknowledges that, according to the Secretariat's 
report, Malaysia 's economic growth rate fell to -5.5% in 2020 due to the impac t of the COVID -19 
pandemic, but subsequently recovered to 3.1% in 2021 due to the gradual easing of 
pandemic -related restrictions and the resumption of economic activity. We are aware that the 
World  Bank forecasts that the growth rate will reach 7.8% in 20 22, and we look forward to Malaysia 
returning to its pre -COVID growth trajectory, and to its continued economic growth in the future.  
4.72.  Taking this opportunity, I would like to touch upon several specific issues on the trade policies 
of Malaysia.  
4.73.  First, reg arding engagement in the WTO, Japan appreciates that over the last two years, 
Malaysia has chaired the Committee of Participants on the Expansion of Trade in Information 
Technology Products. In addition, we also highly commend Malaysia 's active participati on in various 
initiatives, such as the JSI e -commerce negotiations and WTO reform. Japan hopes that Malaysia 
will continue its contributions to the JSI e -commerce negotiations in order to bring them to a 
substantive conclusion by the end of 2023.  
4.74.  As pointe d out in the Secretariat 's Report, we also appreciate that Malaysia has submitted a 
number of notifications during the current review period, and we look forward to further efforts to 
ensure transparency in the future.  
4.75.  Next, with regard to regional trade agreements, according to the Government Report, 
Malaysia has concluded free trade agreements with 16  countries, including nine ASEAN countries, 
and the FTA coverage ratio in total trade amounted to 67.3% for the latest full year 2022. Japan 
highly apprecia tes Malaysia 's efforts to actively promote trade liberalization. We hope that the RTAs 
concluded by Malaysia will complement and strengthen the multilateral trading system.  
4.76.  Turning onto the regional and bilateral economic relationship, we firstly welcome t he entry 
into force of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership （RCEP）last March, which marked 
the third agreement between Japan and Malaysia following the Malaysia -Japan Economic Partnership 
Agreement (MJEPA) and the ASEAN -Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership (AJCEP) 
Agreement. We also welcome the fact that Malaysia has completed its domestic procedures and has 
become a party to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans -Pacific Partnership 
(CPTPP). We look forward to working together to maintain the high standards of the CPTPP, which 
is the cornerstone of a free and open economic order in the Indo -Pacific region.  
4.77.  We would like to promote bilateral cooperation in various other areas as well, such as the 
stable supply  of energy, including liquefied natural gas from Malaysia, interaction of people from our 
countries, including businesspersons, and the opening of Japanese universities in Malaysia.  
4.78.  Finally —yet importantly —I also would like to highlight that this year mark s the 50th 
anniversary of ASEAN -Japan Friendship and Cooperation, and we recognize that this is a good 
opportunity for Japan and the ASEAN countries, including Malaysia, to further strengthen their 
partnership. Japan will hold a special ASEAN -Japan Summit Meeting with the leaders of ASEAN 
countries and will set out a vision for the future of ASEAN -Japan relations. We hope that these efforts 
will also contribute to the development of our bilateral trade.  
4.79.  In closing, we would like to express our appreciation for the timely manner in which Malaysia 
responded to Japan 's advance written questions, and we wish the delegation of Malaysia a successful 
Trade Policy Review.  
NEW ZEALAND  
4.80.  New Zealand welcomes this opportunity to participate in the eighth  Trade Policy Rev iew of 
Malaysia. We further wish to welcome Secretary -General , Datuk  Isham  Ishak, and 
H.E. Mr Syahril  Syazli  Ghazali and the delegation to Geneva. We thank both the WTO Secretariat WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  and the Government of Malaysia for their extensive and detailed work in pre paring this review, and 
Ambassador Acarsoy for his insightful remarks as discussant.  I would like to join other delegations 
in taking this opportunity to express New  Zealand's deep sympathies and solidarity to the people of 
Türkiye  for the devastating eart hquake suffered this week . 
4.81.  New Zealand and Malaysia share many common aspirations on the world stage. We are both 
outward -looking Indo -Pacific nations deeply committed to regional and global rules, open and 
competitive markets, and sustainable approaches t o social, economic and environmental issues.  
4.82.  New Zealand and Malaysia have a significant bilateral trading relationship, and Malaysia is 
one of our top  ten trading partners. That trading relationship is underpinned by the Malaysia 
New Zealand Free Trade Ag reement, as well as several regional trade agreements. These include 
the ASEAN Australia New  Zealand Free Trade Agreement (AANZFTA) – for which upgrade 
negotiations concluded last year; the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans -Pacific Partnership – for 
which we were delighted to welcome Malaysia 's ratification last year; the Regional Comprehensive 
Economic Partnership; and our ongoing negotiations with Malaysia as part of the Indo -Pacific 
Economic Framework (IPEF).  
4.83.  We appreciate that Malaysia shares New  Zealand 's strong commitment to the rules -based 
multilateral trading system, which we see as essential to our collective future prosperity. 
New Zealand and Malaysia enjoy close collaboration across a range of WTO work streams, including 
in relation to advan cing agricultural trade reform as Cairns Group members.  
4.84.  There are many areas in which Malaysia has demonstrated leadership. Malaysia was among 
the first Members to ratify the Trade Facilitation agreement.  And it has been an active participant 
in workstrea ms on MSMEs and Women 's Economic empowerment, as well as current negotiations 
on e-commerce and investment facilitation for development. We look forward to continuing to work 
with Malaysia on these issues going forward and encourage it to consider particip ation in other 
initiatives such as the Joint Statement Initiative on Services Domestic Regulation.  
4.85.  New Zealand looks forward to working with Malaysia to implement the outcomes of MC12. In 
particular, we look forward to Malaysia 's ratification of the Fisher ies Subsidies Agreement, which will 
have a significant impact on the sustainability of our Indo -Pacific region 's fisheries and livelihoods 
of our fishers.  
4.86.  New Zealand continues to value Malaysia 's leadership in ASEAN on trade and economic issues.  
Within the Indo -Pacific, Malaysia has played an active role to help maintain the momentum of trade 
liberalisation. In 2020, Malaysia hosted APEC and launched the APEC Putrajaya Vision  2040 in pursuit 
of an "open, dynamic, resilient , and peaceful Asia -Pacific comm unity by 2040 ". As APEC host in 
2021, New  Zealand was happy to carry this forward by launching the Putrajaya Vision  2040 
Implementation Plan, the Aotearoa Plan of Action.  
4.87.  We note that despite Malaysia 's developing country status, it has for many years main tained 
relatively low or duty -free applied tariffs on a large number of imported goods. As stated in the 
Secretariat 's Report, about 74.3% of all tariff lines face ad valorem  rates of 10% or less, while more 
than 50% of the tariff lines are duty -free on an  MFN basis, which we welcome.  
4.88.  Despite its commitments to an open and liberal trade regime and to transitioning to a low 
carbon economy, New  Zealand notes that the Malaysian economy remains heavily subsidi zed, 
particularly in the energy sector. Subsidies th at artificially lower end -user energy prices create 
wasteful energy use and often fail to meet their objectives, distorting trade, diverting investment 
and lowering competitiveness.   
4.89.  We welcome Malaysia 's consideration of narrowing its subsidies and strongly encourage 
Malaysia to implement a subsidy rationali zation programme.  We suggest Malaysia consider using 
the APEC Voluntary Peer Review for Reform of Inefficient Fossil Fuel Subsidies towards a targeted 
fossil fuel subsidy rationali zation programm e with well -designed transitional policies. We would also 
welcome Malaysia 's participation in the work plan being advanced in the World Trade Organization, 
which will consider the development and social aspects of fossil fuel subsidy reform.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  4.90.  In conclusion , we welcome our warm and committed bilateral relationship, and Malaysia 's 
active and positive contribution to multilateral and regional trade. In particular, we commend its 
commitment to keeping its market open despite the challenging economic landscape i n recent years. 
We believe this work is playing an important role in supporting Malaysia 's goal of developing its 
economy in ways that focus not just on GDP growth but also improve well -being, inclusivity and 
sustainability.  
4.91.  We congratulate Malaysia on its  eighth  Trade Policy Review and wish it a successful and 
valuable session today and Friday.  
KINGDOM OF SAUDI  ARABIA  
4.92.  Chair, allow me to join you and previous speakers in expressing our deep condolences to the 
brotherly Mission of Türkiye , to the families wh o lost their beloved due to the devastating earthquake 
in Türkiye  and Syria. Ambassador Acarsoy, out thoughts are with you all.  
4.93.  The Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia is very pleased to take part in the eighth Trade Policy Review of 
Malaysia and would like to extend a very warm welcome to its distinguished delegation headed by 
H.E. Mr Datuk  Isham  Ishak, Secretary General of the Ministry of International Trade and Industry.  
4.94.  The Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia thanks Malaysia and the WTO Secretariat for their detailed an d 
comprehensive Trade Policy Review Reports. We also thank the discussant H.E.  Mr Alparslan 
Acarsoy, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Türkiye to the WTO for his insightful 
comments.  
4.95.  Over the period 2018 -2019, the Malaysian economy expanded by 4. 6% thanks to the strong 
private consumption and net exports. In 2020, however, Malaysia's GDP contracted by 5.6% 
following the outbreak of COVID -19 pandemic. In 2021, the economy continued to expand by 3.1% 
due to the improvement of domestic demand and rob ust exports performance.  
4.96.  To mitigate the impact of the COVID -19 pandemic, the Government of Malaysia unveiled an 
economic stimulus package worth MYR  530 billion through various immediate and proactive 
measures, especially in fulfilling the needs of the pub lic health system and supporting business 
continuity.  
4.97.  We praise Malaysia for its performance in the Twelfth Malaysia Plan, 2021 -2025, which 
focuses on accelerating innovation and technology adoption, enhancing connectivity and transport 
infrastructure, dev eloping talent, and improving public service. We also would like to highlight the 
considerable development in business and trade -friendly environment, namely the MalaysiaBiz 
Portal, which was launched in 2020 as a one -stop centre for business registration and licensing, 
aiming to encourage competitiveness in the country and spur local economic growth.  
4.98.  Regarding investment development, the Investment Development Authority is the principal 
agency overseeing and driving investment into manufacturing and select ed industries in the services 
sector. Moreover, the National Investment Aspirations, approved in 2021, provides a programme for 
comprehensive reform of the investment agenda to attract high -quality investments creating 
high-income jobs.  
4.99.  Malaysia is an acti ve Member of the WTO and continues to play a central role in the 
reinforcement of the multilateral trading system. In addition, the Government of Malaysia places 
high priority on market openness through bilateral FTAs. To date, Malaysia has implemented a t otal 
of 15 FTAs with many countries.  
4.100.   The Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia and Malaysia have a strong trade relationship which is 
supported by their shared membership in the Organization of the Islamic Conference. Trade 
exchange between the two countries exceeded SAR 14 billion in 2021.  
4.101.   To conclude, I would like to take this opportunity to thank H.E.  Mr Syahril Syazli  Ghazali, 
Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Malaysia to the WTO, and his delegation for the 
excellent cooperation between our two missions. I  also congratulate Malaysia for its solid economic 
performance, and I wish the delegation of Malaysia a very successful Trade Policy Review.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  CHINA  
4.102.   First, let me join others to express my condolences to the people Türkiye for their  loss in the 
earthquake . 
4.103.   Returning to today's agenda, f irst of all, I would like extend my warm welcome to the 
delegation of Malaysia led by Secretary -General Datuk  Isham  Ishak. I would also like to express my 
gratitude to H.E.  Ambassador Didier  Chambovey and the discussant, H.E.  Ambassador  
Alparslan  Acarsoy for their insightful remarks and guiding questions. Let me also thank the 
Secretariat for their hard work.  
4.104.   China appreciates the preparation for this review made by the Government of Malaysia and 
commends the remarkable progress  that Malaysia has achieved in its economic development since 
the last Review. We noticed the valuable commitment of Malaysia to keep its markets open and 
support businesses in the 28 years of WTO Membership.  
4.105.   We are impressed by the Eleventh Malaysia Plan covering 2016 -2020 and the Twelfth 
Malaysia Plan from 2021 -2025 aiming at accelerating technology innovation, enhancing 
infrastructure, and improving the standard of living to achieve a balanced and sustainable growth. 
We also notice with app reciation that Malaysia 's economy has been recovering from shocks of the 
COVID -19 pandemic since 2021 thanks to improving domestic demand and robust exports 
performance.  
4.106.   We recognize that trade has historically been and will remain pivotal in Malaysia's e conomic 
development goals. That 's why Malaysia is resolute to uphold an open, fair, transparent , and 
rules-based multilateral trading system with the WTO at its core. We would like to work with Malaysia 
to support the efforts to strengthen the WTO through reforms and modernization.  
4.107.   China welcomes Malaysia 's active involvement in WTO activities as a strong supporter of 
multilateral cooperation. Over the last two years, Malaysia has chaired the Committee of Participants 
on the Expansion of Trade in Informatio n Technology Products as well as the Working Groups on 
Trade and Transfer of Technology and Trade, Debt and Finance. Malaysia has joined the Joint 
Statement Initiatives on electronic commerce, investment facilitation for development, and micro, 
small, and medium -sized enterprises. At that same time, being an active user of the dispute 
settlement system, Malaysia is a co -sponsor of the proposal to launch the AB Member selection and 
revive the second tier of adjudication. In this regard, we encourage Malaysia  to consider joining the 
MPIA as an interim arrangement during the paralysis of the Appellate Body.  
4.108.   China and Malaysia are traditional trade partners with close ties. Under the guidance of the 
leaders of the two countries, China -Malaysia comprehensive stra tegic partnership has deepened over 
the years and economic and trade cooperation has yielded fruitful results. China has been Malaysia's 
largest trading partner for 13  years. According to statistics from China, our bilateral trade reached 
USD 176.8  billion  in 2021, up 34.5% comparing with the previous year. Two -way investment has 
reached nearly USD 20 billion. Chinese companies are actively participating in the construction of 
Malaysia's East Coast Railway and other major projects.  
4.109.   As a landmark project of  the Belt and Road Initiative between China and Malaysia, the "Two 
Countries Two Parks" cooperation, namely, the Malaysia -China Kuantan Industrial Park and 
China -Malaysia Qinzhou Industrial Park have made remarkable achievements over the past 
10 years. A n umber of demonstration projects in electronic information, steel, tire, port and 
agricultural products have been launched in the park, playing an important role in local economic 
and social development.  
4.110.   China and Malaysia are both members of RCEP. The impl ementation of our commitments to 
each other on market access and rules in different sectors will further elevate bilateral trade and 
investment cooperation, bring more benefits to companies and consumers of our two countries. The 
bilateral cooperation betw een China and Malaysia will also facilitate coordination and integration of 
regional industrial and supply chains, thus making new contribution to regional economic growth.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  4.111.   In this Review, China submitted some questions regarding policies on the operation of 
foreign companies in Malaysia, specific registration requirements and regulations for certain sectors. 
We would like to thank the delegation of Malaysia in advance for their response to our questions.  
4.112.   We look forward to a constructive exchange of views and wish Malaysia a very successful 
Trade Policy Review.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
4.113.   On behalf of the European  Union, I would like to welcome the delegation of the Malaysia for 
the eighth  Trade Policy Review, led by the Secretary General Mr  Datuk  Isham  Ishak (Ministry of 
International Trade and Industry), as well as the large delegation in attendance from Kuala  Lumpur. 
Our appreciation is extended to the Discussant, Ambassador H.E.  Mr Alparslan  Acarsoy (Türkiye), 
for his remarks.  
4.114.   While the economy was dampened by the COVID -19 pandemic, Malaysia 's economy has 
since rebounded. According to World  Bank the country is now projected to transition from its current 
upper -middle -income economy to a high -income economy between 2024 and 2028 provided the 
government successful ly carries through reforms revitali zing long -term growth, boosting 
competitiveness, diversification, moderni zing institutions and promoting inclusion.  
4.115.   During the review period, Malaysia has also acceded to the Regional Comprehensive 
Economic Partnership Ag reement and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for 
Trans -Pacific Partnership, both facilitating access and promoting regional trade. Malaysia has further 
launched a New Investment Policy to reinvigorate and cataly se its investment ecosystem with a 
strong pivot towards environmental, social, and governance issues.  
4.116.   The EU would also like to commend Malaysia for its active participation in the work of the 
WTO and for its commitment and support to the multilateral trad ing system. Furthermore, we 
acknowledge Malaysia 's constructive participation in the Joint Statement Initiatives in E-commerce 
and Investment Facilitation for Development and encourage Malaysia to join the Services Domestic 
Regulation JSI as well as the WT O's initiatives on trade and sustainability.  
4.117.   Despite these very positive aspects, the EU would like to raise a number of issues regarding 
Malaysia's trade and investment policies. These are similar to the ones raised in the previous Trade 
Policy Review of Malaysia, and therefore we would encourage further compliance of these policies.  
4.118.   First, the EU continues to note a general lack of transparency, both ex ante and ex post, 
which deters EU traders and investors from doing business in Malaysia.  
4.119.   Second, we al so remain concerned by the wide use of non -automatic import licensing, which 
the Secretariat Report confirms, as well as by the lack of predictability and transparency of the 
Malaysian licensing regime in general. In particular, we consider that the approv ed permit system 
in the automotive sector is a blatant example of a quota regime that is not compliant with WTO  rules. 
The EU would like to know more about Malaysia 's plans to ensure compliance with WTO rules and to 
further open up its national automotive policy to competition, and these are issues that will not be 
a surprise to the delegation present here today.  
4.120.   Third, although the EU recogni zes that Malaysia has moved in the right direction in terms of 
reform and liberalization of its services sector, we think that further efforts are necessary. For 
instance, we would like to see Malaysia pursuing liberali zation in services sectors where foreign 
equity caps have remained for decades. Linked to this is a more general concern over a set of 
discriminatory dom estic policies that negatively affect foreign direct investment, but also other 
sectors.  
4.121.   Fourth, we reiterate our concern about the discrimination our providers face when trying to 
access Malaysia's public procurement market. In some important sectors - such as civil engineering 
and infrastructure development - our suppliers are extremely rarely allowed to tender. Unlike several 
other Asian economies at a similar, or lesser level of economic development, Malaysia is only an 
observer to the Government Procur ement Agreement. The EU strongly encourages Malaysia to make WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  its procurement market more open and transparent, and to consider joining the GPA. Furthermore, 
we would like to extend to Malaysia the invitation to join the MPIA arrangement.  
4.122.   Finally, while we  appreciate Malaysia's ambition to become a hub for halal products, the EU 
once again encourages Malaysia to pursue this ambition whilst allowing EU operators to export 
non-halal meat products to Malaysia as well. In addition, EU halal meat products should  be permitted 
to compete on the Malaysian halal market under the same conditions as Malaysian operators.  
4.123.   The EU would like to thank Malaysia for the responses to the advance questions we have put 
forward today on these and other issues that we are currentl y examining. On behalf of the EU, I  wish 
Malaysia a very successful eighth  review.  
PHILIPPINES  
4.124.   The Philippines warmly welcomes and congratulates the delegation of Malaysia led by 
H.E. Mr Datuk  Isham  Ishak, Secretary  General of the Ministry of International  Trade and Industry 
on their eighth  Trade Policy Review. We also thank Ambassador H.E.  Mr Alparslan  Acarsoy of Türkiye 
for his insightful comments as discussant, and the WTO Secretariat for its comprehensive Report.  
4.125.   We join the Membership in conveying our deepest condolences to the people of Türkiye and 
Syria following the major earthquake in the region. The Philippines has mobilized a 85 -person 
contingent, composed of search and rescue experts, health professionals and medical supplies, and 
stands ready to  offer additional support.  
4.126.   The Philippines associates itself with the ASEAN statement to be delivered by Indonesia 
recognizing the crucial role of Malaysia in shaping overall development and progress of ASEAN and 
its relations with external partners. We to o note the commendable performance of Malaysia's 
economy which has continued to be one of the strongest and diversified economies in Southeast 
Asia since the last Review in 2018.  
4.127.   As co -founders of ASEAN, the Philippines shares with Malaysia the vision of a n ASEAN 
Community that is highly integrated, competitive, innovative, resilient, and people -centred.  
4.128.   The Philippines enjoys long -standing  bilateral relations with Malaysia given our historical and 
cultural linkages. In 2021, Malaysia was ranked as the Phi lippines ' 10th major trading partner in the 
world with total bilateral trade amounting to USD 7.2 billion. The top Philippine exports to Malaysia 
consist of electrical machinery and equipment, boilers, rubber, animal or vegetable fats and oils, 
and precisi on optical, photographic instruments. And the Philippines and Malaysia remain key 
contributors to the emergence of ASEAN as a key global production hub for electrical and electronics 
value chains.  
4.129.   As noted in both Reports by the Secretariat and Malaysia, the outbreak of the COVID -19 
pandemic adversely affected the Malaysian economy, which contracted in 2020 but has since begun 
to recover. The Secretariat Report noted Malaysia 's pre-pandemic solid macroeconomic position and 
sound policy framework which allo wed Malaysia to react to the pandemic swiftly and boldly.  
4.130.   The Philippines further notes that while no new bilateral FTAs have been concluded since the 
last trade policy review in 2018, Malaysia has ratified the Regional Comprehensive Economic 
Partnership ( RCEP), which entered into force for the country on 18  March  2022, and the 
Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans -Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), which recently 
took effect on 29  November  2022. Malaysia is also participating in all pillars of the Indo-Pacific 
Economic Framework (IPEF).  
4.131.   Malaysia is a firm supporter of the multilateral trading system and an active Member of the 
WTO, particularly illustrated by its chairmanship of the Committee of Participants on the Expansion 
of Trade in Information Technology Products as well as the Working Groups on Trade and Transfer 
of Technology and Trade, Debt and Finance. Malaysia is also an active participant of the joint 
initiatives in e -commerce, investment facilitation, trade and gender, and micro, small, a nd 
medium -sized enterprises. The Philippines would encourage Malaysia to also consider joining the 
Joint Initiative on Services Domestic Regulation and the Dialogue on Plastic Pollution and 
Environmentally Sustainable Plastics Trade.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  4.132.   We note the significan t developments in the economic policies of Malaysia, and we appreciate 
the opportunity to learn more about these policies through this Trade Policy Review. Our delegation 
has submitted advance written questions and we thank the delegation of the Malaysia f or its timely 
responses.  
4.133.   In closing, the Philippines looks forward to further enhancing the mutually beneficial 
economic relations with Malaysia in bilateral, regional, and multilateral fora.  
BRUNEI  DARUSSALAM  
4.134.   Brunei  Darussalam associates itself with the ASEAN statement to be delivered by Indonesia, 
and joins in warmly welcoming the delegation from Malaysia led by H .E. Mr Datuk  Isham  Ishak, 
Secretary General at the Ministry of International Trade and Industry of Malaysia.  
4.135.   We thank the Government of Malays ia and the WTO Secretariat for the comprehensive 
Reports and H .E. Ambassador Alparslan  Acarsoy of Türkiye  for his role as the discussant.  
4.136.   We would also like to express our deepest con dolences  to Ambassador  Acarsoy  for the loss 
of lives and the devastation  caused by the recent as earthquake.  
4.137.   Brunei  Darussalam  and Malaysia established diplomatic relations in January  1984, and we 
have a strong, long -standing, bilateral relationship with Malaysia that covers many areas of 
cooperation from economic, education, defence, tourism, culture, sports , and health.  
4.138.   In 2021, Malaysia was Brunei  Darussalam 's fourth  top trading partner with bilateral trade 
stands at B ND 3.31 billion, accounting for 12.6% of Brunei  Darussalam' s total trade. Our main 
exports comprise of mine ral products, manufactured goods, machinery , and transport equipment 
while the main imports consist of food, live animals, beverages , and tobacco.  
4.139.   Brunei  Darussalam  commends Malaysia for its dynamic trade policies, anchored on the 
priorities outlined in i ts Eleventh and Twelfth Malaysia Plans towards achieving a balanced and 
sustainable growth by accelerating technology adoption and innovation, enhancing connectivity and 
transport infrastructure as well as improving the standard of living, particularly dur ing the 
challenging economic landscape in recent years.  
4.140.   As our countries work to achieve a more sustainable growth post COVID -19, 
Brunei  Darussalam looks forward to increase our bilateral cooperation across many sectors including 
food, downstream oil and gas, services, ICT, tourism as well as in MSME s and cooperatives. We are 
pleased that our business communities are actively working to pro mote closer economic, trade and 
investment ties by setting up business councils in both countries.  
4.141.   Brunei  Darussalam  and Malaysia are also closely bonded through our membership of ASEAN 
with a common goal of building an inclusive, peaceful, resilient, sta ble, and prosperous region by 
advancing our ASEAN community -building efforts. Last year, we welcomed an important milestone 
with the 55th anniversary of ASEAN where our collective work has and will continue to deliver 
economic prosperity, social advancement , and regional peace.  
4.142.   In addition to our ongoing work to achieve economic integration under the ASEAN Economic 
Community (AEC), Brunei  Darussalam also looks forward to strengthen our sub -regional cooperation 
under the Brunei  Darussalam -Indonesia -Malaysia -Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP -EAGA) 
to deliver clean and green manufacturing; competitive and climate resilient agro -industry ; and 
well-developed multi -country tourism destination.  
4.143.   As firm supporters of the multilateral trading system and of the WTO, Brunei  Darussalam 
appreciates Malaysia 's active participation in this Organization. We also value our engagement with 
Malaysia in the various multilateral for a including APEC, CPTPP , and IPEF.  
4.144.   Brunei  Darussalam has submitted several questions in relations to the Report by Malaysia 
and we thank Malaysia for their responses.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  4.145.   Finally, we would like to take this opportunity to wish Mal aysia a successful eighth  Trade 
Policy Review.  
REPUBLIC OF KOREA  
4.146.   I would like to join other speakers in welcoming Secretary General of Ministry of International 
Trade and Industry, H.E. Mr Datuk  Isham  Ishak and his delegation to the eighth  Trade Policy Rev iew 
of Malaysia. I also thank Ambassador Alparslan  Acarsoy of Türkiye  for his role as a discussant.  
4.147.   My delegation takes note that after a GDP contraction by 5.6% in 2020, Malaysia 's economy 
grew by 3.1% in 2021 and recovered further by more than 5.3% in 2 022. Such performance w as 
possible thanks to improving domestic demand and robust exports performance. I believe the 
Twelfth Malaysia Plan 2021 -2025, will continue this trend by transforming the economy towards 
increased inclusivity and sustainability as w ell as prosperity.  
4.148.   As Malaysia 's trade activities and business community remain resilient even during the 
pandemic, its trade surplus peaked in 2020 and trade volume surpassed USD 500 billion for the first 
time in 2021. This shows the importance that Mala ysia put s on the trade as a leading engine of 
growth. It is commendable that Malaysia makes its efforts to reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens 
and facilitate trade by reviewing non -tariff measures under the Malaysia Productivity Blueprint 
since 2017. How ever, it is reported that in some cases, its processes and regulations for import 
permits continue to cause unnecessary burdens for foreign exporters. And excise duty on certain 
products, such as alcoholic beverages, substantially leads to differentiated t ax burdens between 
domestic and foreign producers. Korea encourages Malaysia to pay more attention to this issue.  
4.149.   My delegation appreciates Malaysia 's commitment to multilateral trading system as an active 
WTO Member and market opening with growing engage ment in RTAs and FTAs.  
4.150.   Malaysia has participated in negotiations and discussions not only on regular activities but 
also on JSIs, including electronic commerce, investment facilitation for investment and MSMEs. It 
has fully implemented the Trade Facilitat ion Agreement since June  2021. Malaysia 's implementation 
of tariff cuts on products covered by the expanded Information Technology Agreements led to a fall 
in Malaysia 's applied rates. In this regard, my delegation commends Malaysia 's active participation 
in WTO and looks forward to closer cooperation with Malaysia in this arena of international trade.  
4.151.   At the same time, I would like to encourage Malaysia to continue its submission of 
notification s in some areas that need to be improv ed. As Malaysia is not a party to the Agreement 
on Government Procurement, I also would like to Malaysia to consider joining the Agreement that 
will promote competition and free trade in the relevant area.  
4.152.   At the regional level, Malaysia has enhanced its integration efforts with other ASEAN 
Members by establishing ASEAN Economic Community and the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement. 
In other areas, including trade facilitation and liberalization of service s trade, investment and 
e-commerce, such efforts are und erway. The ASEAN have also pursued trade liberalization through 
a network of FTAs and I believe that , as an ASEAN member, Malaysia has enjoyed the benefits from 
ASEAN 's integration and FTAs with other countries.  
4.153.   The Korea -ASEAN FTA is one of these FTAs an d it has helped the Republic of Korea and 
Malaysia to liberalize our trade since 2007. It is also welcoming that the RCEP, which contributes to 
further trade liberalization, entered into effect in both the Republic of Korea and Malaysia. The start 
of the b ilateral relations goes back to 1960 when the Republic of Korea and Malaysia established 
diplomatic ties. For more than 60 years, the two countries have expanded the areas of cooperation 
and the bilateral cooperation in industry.  
4.154.   As many other delegations said today, once again, my delegation appreciates Malaysia 's 
steadfast support to and active participation in the rules -based multilateral trading system. The 
Republic of Korea believes that Malaysia will continuously contribute to facilitating free trade and 
strengthening the multilateral trading system. My Government also looks forward to continuing to 
work closely with Malaysia in the arena of international trade.  
4.155.   I wish the delegation of Malaysia every success in its TPR.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  REPÚBLICA  DOMINICANA  
4.156.   Primeramen te, quisiéramos expresar nuestras condolencias y toda nuestra solidaridad a la 
delegación de Türkiye , por los irreparables daños en pérdidas de vidas humanas como consecuencia 
del terremoto que afectó a ese país recientemente.  
4.157.   La delegación de la Repúblic a Dominicana desea agradecer la presentación del informe de 
parte del Honorable Datuk  Isham  Ishak, Secretario General del Ministerio de Industria y Comercio 
de Malasia. Asimismo, queremos agradecer la ponencia del Embajador Alparslan  Acarsoy, 
Representante  Permanente de Türkiye , y damos la bienvenida a la delegación de Malasia que nos 
visita.  
4.158.   Nuestra delegación constata en los informes presentados, cómo, al igual que en la gran 
mayoría de países, en los últimos años, el crecimiento económico de Malasia se v io afectado como 
consecuencia de la pandemia de  la COVID -19, las tensiones geopolíticas, y la volatilidad de los 
precios de los productos básicos, entre otras.  
4.159.   Observamos con satisfacción cómo, luego de una contracción económica del orden del 5 ,6% 
durante el año 2020, debido a la pandemia de  la COVID -19, Malasia se recuperó en el año 2021, 
con un 3 ,1% de crecimiento de su producto interno bruto (PIB), gracias al aumento de la demanda 
interna y los buenos resultados de las exportaciones.  
4.160.   Valoramos y felicit amos a Malasia, una de las economías más abiertas del mundo, por haber 
logrado que las actividades comerciales mantuvieran su nivel durante el per iodo de la pandemia, y 
que, en el 2021, el valor de las exportaciones se incrementara hasta un nivel sin prece dentes.  
4.161.   Observamos con interés como Malasia ha basado sus políticas comerciales en las prioridades 
establecidas en el 11º  Plan de Malasia (2016 -2020) y en el 12º  Plan de Malasia (2021 -2025), con el 
objetivo de lograr una mayor innovación y la adopción de tecnología, mejorar la conectividad y la 
infraestructura de transporte, y aumentar el nivel de vida, para lograr un crecimiento equilibrado y 
sostenible.  
4.162.   Otro tema que nos llama la ate nción de manera positiva es la puesta en marcha en el 
año 2021 del Plan para la Economía Digital con el objetivo de transformar a Malasia en una nación 
orientada a la tecnología digital y de ingresos altos y, a la larga, en líder regional en materia de 
economía digital.  
4.163.   Nuestra delegación agradece las respuestas de Malasia a las preguntas presentadas por 
nuestro país. Las preguntas están relacionadas con las exenciones de los derechos de importación 
para las zonas francas industriales, y la dependencia del  valor del contenido nacional, así como el 
cumplimiento de las disposiciones del artículo  3 del Acuerdo sobre Subvenciones y Medidas 
Compensatorias (Acuerdo SMC). Las respuestas estarán siendo analizadas por nuestras autoridades 
competentes en Santo  Doming o.  
4.164.   Por otra parte, valoramos que Malasia tiene la condición de observador en el Comité de 
Contratación Pública de la OMC. En ese sentido, una de las prioridades principales del Gobierno 
dominicano es lograr un nivel máximo de transparencia en las ejecucio nes del Estado dominicano. 
Otra acción que muestra el compromiso del Gobierno dominicano en materia de transparencia, lo 
constituye la adhesión de nuestro país como Miembro observador en el Comité de Contratación 
Pública desde el 20  de septiembre de 2022, convirtiéndose en el primer observador de la región del 
Caribe.  
4.165.   Al concluir, queremos aprovechar la ocasión para agradecer nuevamente a la delegación de 
Malasia y desearle un exitoso examen de su política comercial.  
COLOMBIA  
4.166.   Saludamos atentamente a la delegación de Malasia, encabezada por el Sr.  Datuk Isham 
Ishak, Secretario General del Ministerio de Comercio Exterior e Industria (MITI) y a todo su equipo 
de capital y en Ginebra.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  4.167.   Agradecemos el análisis y los comentarios pres entados por el ponente, el Embajador 
S.E. Sr. Alparslan  Acarsoy de Türkiye . Los elementos expuestos han contribuido de manera 
importante a enriquecer esta discusión , y a quien expresamos nuestro sincero pesar por los 
desastres naturales ocurridos y sus con secuencias. Igualmente reconocemos el dedicado trabajo de 
la Secretaría y de las autoridades de Malasia en la elaboración de los informes.  
4.168.   Como países en desarrollo, compartimos muchas similitudes culturales, incluyendo un 
patrimonio cultural rico y divers o y un fuerte énfasis en los valores y tradiciones familiares.  
4.169.   Teniendo en cuenta el informe de la Secretaría, valoramos los esfuerzos de Malasia para 
desarrollar talento  humano , acelerar la adopción de innovación y tecnología, mejorar la conectividad 
e infraestructura de transporte y mejorar los servicios públicos. Además, su enfoque en "game 
changers" es una muestra de su compromiso con el desarrollo económico sostenible.  
4.170.   Es destacable la evolución de la cuenta corriente de Malasia y aplaudimos sus avance s en 
materia de propiedad industrial, en especial su reciente adhesión al Protocolo de Madrid y al Tratado 
de Budapest, así como la promulgación de la nueva ley y reglamentación de indicaciones geográficas.  
4.171.   Nos gustaría conocer más sobre la posición de Mal asia en las negociaciones agrícolas con 
respecto a las medidas de existencias públicas con fines de seguridad alimentaria. Según la 
información disponible y notificada por Malasia, el espacio de política para subsidiar productos 
específicos en la medida gl obal de ayuda es bastante considerable (alcanzando el 20% del valor de 
su producción, con más de USD  5.000 millones en cifras del 2016) y puede seguir aumentando a 
medida que haya una mayor producción. Podría pensarse que , implementando sus políticas dentr o 
del espacio otorgado por el Acuerdo de Agricultura, Malasia puede efectuar una enorme cantidad de 
ayudas sin necesidad de flexibilidades adicionales.  
4.172.   De otro lado, Colombia quisiera mencionar que es tercera parte del procedimiento de Malasia 
contra la Un ión Europea respecto a algunas medidas que aplican al aceite de palma. Colombia espera 
un resultado positivo para el comercio internacional basado en normas.  
4.173.   Con este espíritu, seguiremos trabajando juntos para profundizar una relación comercial 
sólida y mutuamente beneficiosa entre Colombia y Malasia.  
BRAZIL  
4.174.   First, on behalf of Brazil, I join others in extending our heartfelt condolences to 
Ambassador  Acarsoy and the people of Türkiye following the loss of life and devastation caused by 
the earth quake that struck Türkiye and Syria earlier this week.  
4.175.   Turning to the subject of this meeting, I would like to extend  a warm welcome to the 
delegation of Malaysia, headed by Secretary General , Datuk  Isham  Ishak, and to the colleagues of 
the Malaysian Miss ion to the WTO, always very active participants in this Organization. I thank the 
Government of Malaysia and the WTO Secretariat for their Reports, the discussant, Ambassador 
Acarsoy, for his insightful remarks, and you, Chair, for your opening comments.  
4.176.   Malaysia has traditionally been home to one of the most open economies in the world, one 
that is deeply integrated to global supply chains and heavily reliant on foreign commerce.  
4.177.   Trade between Brazil and Malaysia has significantly increased since Malaysia 's last TPR in 
2018. In 2021, Malaysia was our second largest trading partner in ASEAN, with our bilateral trade 
flows reaching a record USD  6.4 billion.  
4.178.   GDP is estimated to have grown by 8.5 % to 9% in 2022, a robust performance that we 
understand has benef ited from world demand for products of which Malaysia is a key exporter.  
4.179.   The importance of international trade for Malaysia 's economy is also reflected in initiatives 
directed at trade facilitation. Brazil commends Malaysia for its efforts in further strea mlining customs 
procedures and facilitating trade through its National Single Window.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  4.180.   Brazilian companies have important investments in Malaysia, in areas such as mining and 
electric motors. Malaysian firms, in turn, have made significant investments in Br azil, notably in the 
field of oil and gas.  
4.181.   The strong economic ties between Brazil and Malaysia continue to provide a solid basis for 
an enhanced partnership. Brazil will continue to attach priority to our close dialogue with Malaysian 
trade authorities. T he first meeting of our Joint Trade Committee, held in September  2022, pointed 
to a number of pathways along which further cooperation between our two countries could be 
pursued.  
4.182.   Shortly after that meeting, a large Brazilian delegation, including business representatives, 
visited Malaysia on a trade mission that provided valuable opportunities for exchanges in a large 
array of sectors, including aeronautics, agriculture , and pharmaceutics.  
4.183.   On agriculture in particular, Brazil sees great potential for the ex pansion of its exports of 
halal meat to Malaysia. In this regard, we count on the engagement of Malaysian authorities to set 
out as clearly and transparently as possible to prospective exporters what are the applicable sanitary 
and halal requirements, so t hat any pending issues may be resolved without undue delay.  
4.184.   Brazil has submitted to Malaysia a few questions, including questions related to SPS 
requirements and halal certification. We look forward to receiving Malaysia 's replies, which will be 
conveyed t o our capital for examination and follow -up. 
4.185.   Let me conclude, by wishing the Malaysian delegation a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
TÜRKIYE  
4.186.   Let me first thank you and all the members who expressed kind words of condolences and 
solidarity today. These are extremely difficult days for my country. While we mourn our people who 
lost their lives and pray for those who are directly affected by the devastating earthquakes, we 
appreciate solidarity and support of our WTO family.  
4.187.   Turning to my statement, we wel come the delegation of Malaysia led by Mr Datuk  Isham 
Ishak, Secretary General of the Ministry of International Trade and Industry.  We thank the 
Secretariat and the Government of Malaysia for their Reports as well as discussant Ambassador 
Acarsoy for his i nvaluable remarks.  
4.188.   Malaysia 's economy has recovered rapidly from the pandemic and registered a strong growth 
in 2022. During the review period, Malaysia has taken important steps to transform its economy into 
a high -income one. We consider that steps taken  by the Malaysian Government to boost 
development and advance the economy are exemplary in its region.  
4.189.   Malaysia is also a prominent actor in ASEAN. We commend its efforts to strengthen the 
regional integration.  Furthermore, we recognize Malaysia 's active p articipation in the work of 
the WTO. We are pleased to collaborate with Malaysia in Joint Statement Initiatives on e -commerce 
and MSMEs.  
4.190.   Malaysia is an important partner for Türkiye in Southeast Asia.  Our Governments share a 
strong will to further strengthen bilateral political and economic cooperation.  We elevated our 
relations with Malaysia to the level of Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in July  2022.  We believe 
that the protocol on the expansion of the Free Trade Agreement, which was signed l ast year 
(September  2022) in Ankara, will contribute to further our cooperation in e -commerce, services , and 
investments.  
4.191.   Malaysia is our top trading partner within ASEAN. Bilateral trade volume in 2021 was around 
USD 3.5 billion. We hope to maintain this growth in a more balanced manner.  
4.192.   In conclusion, we would like to take this opportunity to thank Ambassador  Syahril Syazli  
Ghazali and his able team for the preparation for this review, as well as their contributions to WTO 
activities.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  4.193.   We wish Malaysia a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
AUSTRALIA  
4.194.   I would like to welcome Mr  Datuk Isham  Ishak  and his impressive delegation w ho deeply 
engage in the work here in the WTO and is a huge testament to the energy and commitment that 
Malaysia shows here in the multilateral trading system.  
4.195.   Ambassador  Arcasoy , dear friend, the heart -breaking images coming out of your country in 
the las t hours have been there for all of us to see and we have just heard your deputy  spoke with 
great passion about the impact this is having  on you.  Our deep sympathies are with you, we all 
stand with you in this room at this very difficult time.  
4.196.   Australia is pleased to participate in this eighth  Trade Policy Review of Malaysia and thanks 
Malaysia and the Secretariat for their detailed and comprehensive Reports.   
4.197.   Australia values our close and long -standing  bilateral relationship with Malaysia, 
underpinned by our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.  
4.198.   Our economies rely on an open and predictable global trading environment. We share a 
strong commitment to the rules -based multilateral trading system and the WTO, including a shared 
commitment to restoring the full  functionality of the dispute settlement system. While we continue 
to work on this shared objective, we encourage Malaysia to join Australia and others in the 
Multi-Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement.  
4.199.   Australia welcomes Malaysia 's constructive en gagement in the Joint Statement Initiatives on 
electronic commerce, investment facilitation for investment, and micro, small, and medium -sized 
enterprises. We encourage Malaysia to join the Joint Statement Initiative on services domestic 
regulation, buildi ng on the work we have done together in the Asia -Pacific Economic Cooperation 
and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership fora.  
4.200.   We also welcome Malaysia 's contributions as a Cairns Group member, including to the 
Group 's ambitions of comprehensive m ultilateral agricultural trade reform to help level the playing 
field in agriculture.  
4.201.   Malaysia is an important bilateral trading partner for Australia. The Malaysia -Australia Free 
Trade Agreement forms the central pillar of our trade and economic relation ship. In 2021 Malaysia 
was Australia 's ninth largest two -way trading partner and our second -largest trading partner among 
ASEAN member States.  
4.202.   Our bilateral trade relationship with Malaysia is complemented by our close engagement 
across our region 's emerg ing economic architecture, including the Indo -Pacific Economic Framework 
for Prosperity, as well as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, the 
ASEAN -Australia -New Zealand Free Trade Agreement and the Comprehensive and Progressive 
Agreement for Trans -Pacific Partnership. We commend Malaysia 's ratification of the latter - which 
entered into force on 29  November  2022 - and we would welcome working with Malaysia to build on 
this regional cooperation by promoting some of the same object ives in the WTO context, such as 
the moratorium on customs duties on electronic transmissions.  
4.203.   Australia welcomes the continued implementation of the Twelfth Malaysia Plan (2021 -2025) 
to counter the economic and trade impacts of the COVID -19 pandemic. We acknowledge Malaysia 's 
success in capitali zing on international demand to sustain targeted economic growth, driven by 
strong private consumption and net exports. Australia looks forward to working with Malaysia in all 
fora to achieve mutually sustainable e conomic outcomes in 2023 and beyond.  
4.204.   In anticipation of the Thirteenth Malaysia Plan, Australia welcomes Malaysia 's aspirations to 
attract low -carbon investment and we look forward to continuing to share our experiences on 
achieving net -zero carbon emissio ns by 2050. We encourage Malaysia to enhance its participation 
in environment discussions at the WTO - including through the WTO Committee on Trade and 
Environment and the environment initiatives - as well as the second phase of fisheries subsidies 
negotia tions.   WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  4.205.   Australia welcomes Malaysia 's efforts to notify its policies and programs, including 
its 38 notifications to the WTO Committee on Technical Barrers to Trade. We encourage Malaysia to 
further demonstrate its commitment to transparency by improving the timeliness and scope of its 
notifications, as recommended in the WTO Secretariat 's Report.  
4.206.   Australia commends Malaysia 's efforts to stimulate participation of its MSMEs in international 
trade, particularly in the manufacturing, banking, and tourism sec tors. Specifically, Australia notes 
Malaysia 's 2021 Digital Economy Blueprint as a strategy to support targeted national development 
outcomes, such as digitalizing commerce for 875,000 Malaysian micro, small, and medium -sized 
enterprises.  
4.207.   To continue stren gthening the trade relationship for the economic benefit of both countries, 
Australia encourages Malaysia to continue reducing non -tariff barriers to trade and investment.  
4.208.   Australia has submitted several written questions to this Trade Policy Review, and we look 
forward to Malaysia 's responses.  
4.209.   Australia wishes Malaysia a successful and constructive Trade Policy Review.  
INDIA  
4.210.   At the outset, we join others in expressing our deepest condolences to Ambassador  Acarsoy 
and his team in Geneva for the loss of l ives and damage caused by the recent earthquake in your 
country. Under the direction of Prime  Minister Modi, our Government has already dispatched 
humanitarian assistance, including medical teams, under the "Operation Dost", and Ambassador you 
would know dost in both of our languages means "friend" and you are our friend. We hope that your 
country recovers from this crisis quickly.  
4.211.   Turning to the agenda, my delegation is pleased to participate in the eighth  Trade Policy 
Review of Malaysia. We would like to extend the very warm welcome to the delegation of Malaysia, 
led by H.E.  Mr Datuk  Isham  Ishak, Secretary General of Ministry of International Trade and Industry, 
and also we commend H.E. Ambassador Syahril  Syazli  Ghazali, Permanent Representative of 
Malaysi a, and his entirety for their hard work. My delegation would like to extend our appreciation 
to the Government of Malaysia and the WTO Secretariat for their comprehensive Reports and we 
would also like to thank the discussant, H.E.  Ambassador Acarsoy, for his insightful remarks.  
4.212.   India and Malaysia enjoy a close and multifaceted partnership underpinned by strong 
economic, cultural, and people -to-people linkages. Bilateral ties were elevated to enhanced strategic 
partnership during the visit of Prime  Minister  Modi to Malaysia in 2015, since then, due to the 
subsequent high -level engagements the two countries are witnessing growing engagements in all 
aspects of bilateral relationship, including political, economic trade, defence, security, tourism, 
education, a nd health, to name a few. Malaysia is also home to the second largest Indian diaspora 
after the United  States.  
4.213.   Trade and economic cooperation are the key pillars of our expanding and comprehensive 
ties. The Bilateral Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agr eement (CECA) covering goods, 
services, and investment has been in effect since 2011, trade between both countries for the year 
2021-2022 stands at about USD  20 billion and it is steadily growing after witnessing a dip the 
previous year due to the COVID -19 pandemic. Malaysia is the 13th largest trading partner of India 
and the 3rd largest in the ASEAN region. The bilateral investment flows are also gradually increasing, 
Indian companies have made significant investments in Malaysia covering over 250  manufac turing 
projects. Overall, we are upbeat about the potential for expanding our trade and economic ties.  
4.214.   As noted in the Secretariat's Report, before the pandemic, Malaysia's diversified economy 
delivered sustained growth on the back of a strong policy frame work, due to the COVID -19 pandemic 
Malaysia's economy, too, faced slowdown. We have noted Malaysia's initiatives to tackle the 
challenges of combatting the pandemic and setting the path of steady economic recovery. We take 
note of the 12th Malaysia  Plan 20 21-25, which is considered transformational and designed to inject 
fundamental reforms to alter the development trajectory of Malaysia.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  4.215.   My delegation has submitted several advanced written questions covering diverse areas of 
trade in goods, services, SPS and TBT related issues, trade facilitation, to name a few. We look 
forward to reviewing the responses from Malaysia to these questions posed by my delegation.  
4.216.   Before I conclude, I would like to say that we look forward to working closely with the 
Governmen t of Malaysia for further expanding and harnessing the potential of our trade and 
investment ties for our mutual benefit. Malaysia has also been an active Member at the WTO and 
the participant in the work across the full WTO agenda. We look forward to work ing with Malaysia in 
ensuring balanced outcomes in both the ongoing negotiations as well as in the regular work in 
various WTO bodies.  
4.217.   We wish the delegation of Malaysia a productive and successful Trade Policy Review.  
PAKISTAN  
4.218.   Pakistan wishes to warmly welcome the Malaysian delegation led by H.E. Datuk Isham Ishak , 
Secretary General Ministry of International Trade and Industry of Malaysia at this eighth Trade Policy 
Review. Pakistan also extends appreciation to the Secretariat's  for its work in preparing Report for 
this review.  
4.219.   While we wish to convey thanks to H.E.  Ambassador Alparslan  Acarsoy  for his insightful 
remarks in leading the discussion at this review, we also express sorrow over the loss of lives 
following the deadly earthquake in Türkiye . 
4.220.   Pakistan wishes to commend Malaysia for its sound economic policy resulting in an 
impressive eco nomic growth and especially for bouncing back rapidly after the pandemic. Malaysia 's 
structured approach to its growth though its Eleventh and now the Twelfth Plan, are to be credited 
for this sustained growth.  
4.221.   At WTO, Malaysia has always been an important  and active Member. It has been among the 
co-sponsor of the TRIPS waiver to allow the equitable access to vaccine, therapeutics, and 
diagnostics for COVID -19. We commend the active role of Malaysia at the WTO through its Geneva 
Mission under the leadership  of Permanent Representative H.E . Syahril Syazli Ghazali.  
4.222.   Malaysia 's progress over the years is exemplary for developing countries considering how 
well integrated Malaysia is in the world trade and also how it has expanded its services sector to 
account fo r 58.3% of its GDP by 2025 as set under the Twelfth Malaysia Plan.  
4.223.   We wish to applaud the targeted actions taken by Malaysia during the period under review 
and appreciate the strides made in subsequence of:  
• trade facilitation ; 
• digitalization ; 
• amendme nt of the Competition Act 2010 and its alignment with international best practices ;  
• launch of National Anti -Corruption Plan (NACP) ; and  
• Malaysia 's progress in area of intellectual property (IP) in the form of new Trademarks 
Act 2019 and Geographical I ndications Act 2022 together with amendments to the Patents 
Act 1983 and the Copyright Act 1987.  
4.224.   Pakistan and Malaysia share strong economic and diplomatic ties, underscored by the 
economic partnership agreement since January  2008, under which Pakistan hop es to deepen 
collaboration and to keep exploring new avenues of trade and mutual interests.  
4.225.   We wish to register that Pakistan sent some questions to Malaysia to further deepen our 
understanding on some of Malaysia 's trade policies and are looking forward t o receiving the 
responses.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  4.226.   In the end Chair, we wish to Malaysia every success in this TPR and hope it provides Malaysia 
with further inputs to reach its ambitious objective to become a high -income country.  
UNITED  STATES  
4.227.   I would like to take this opportuni ty to convey our sincere condolences for the loss of life in 
Türkiye and express our support for the citizens of Türkiye  at this very difficult time.  
4.228.   The United  States is pleased to welcome Datuk  Isham  Ishak, and the other members of the 
Malaysian delegat ion today.  
4.229.   The United  States enjoys a robust economic cooperation with Malaysia, including under the 
2004 US -Malaysia Trade and Investment Framework Agreement. In 2022, the United  States, 
Malaysia, and 12 other partners launched the Indo -Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF). The IPEF 
aims to advance resilience, sustainability, inclusiveness, economic growth, fairness, and 
competitiveness for our economies. Through this initiative, the IPEF partners aim to contribute to 
cooperation, stability, prosperity, deve lopment, and peace within the region.  
4.230.   As countries work together to recover fully from the pandemic, the United  States appreciates 
Malaysia 's shared enthusiasm to implement policies aimed at promoting sustainable, resilient, and 
inclusive economic growth throughout the region. During the five -year period of this review, the 
Government has implemented trade policy reforms towards making a meaningful difference in the 
lives of Malaysian workers.  
4.231.   As highlighted in the Government Report and further elaborated upon by the Secretary  
General this morning, Malaysia has made important  progress in updating its laws on labour reform, 
including the ratification of the ILO Protocol of 2014 to the Forced Labour Convention, amendments 
to the Employment Act, and amendments to Employee 's Minimum Standards of Housing and 
Amenities Act. We would  welcome an opportunity to hear more about these reforms here in the  WTO, 
recognizing the importance of employment and labour policies as an integral part of the multilateral 
trading system. We commend Malaysia 's significant efforts to date and encourage M alaysia to 
continue its efforts to strengthen worker rights, and to address and eradicate forced labour.  
4.232.   Malaysia has also undertaken common -sense initiatives to fortify its WTO commitments and 
provide clear and tangible benefits to traders. Such efforts include ongoing reform of the overall 
regulatory framework as well as specific initiatives to streamline burdensome non -tariff measures 
and processes for export and import permits We were impressed to read that Malaysia had reviewed 
over 400  non-tariff mea sures so far, and would be interested to learn more about Malaysia 's 
experience in reducing burdensome regulations and processes and more details regarding the 
outcome of that Review.  
4.233.   We welcome Malaysia 's accession to the Madrid Protocol and Budapest Trea ty. We encourage 
Malaysia to continue its efforts to review legislation and ensure a robust intellectual property system 
to advance a dynamic and innovative economy.  
4.234.   Our written questions reflect our interest in understanding Malaysia 's trade policy regim e in 
a number of areas, including industrial policy, trade remedy, import licensing, subsidies, SPS, TBT, 
environment, services, intellectual property, among others. We appreciate Malaysia 's responses, 
which will facilitate our further economic cooperation . 
4.235.   Following Malaysia 's national elections in November  2022, we note the new government 's 
economic priorities and encourage Malaysia to continue to adopt trade and investment policies that 
spur an open, competitive, transparent, and inclusive economic envir onment. The United  States 
looks forward to continuing our strong cooperation with Malaysia here at the WTO; bilaterally; and 
in ASEAN, APEC, and IPEF.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  SEPARATE CUSTOMS TERRITORY OF TAIWAN, PENGHU, KINMEN AND MATSU  
4.236.   First of all, we extend our deepest condolences to famil ies and communities affected by the 
devastating earthquake  in Türkiye recently . 
4.237.   The Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu would like to 
welcome the delegation of Malaysia, led by Mr  Datuk Isham  Ishak, to  its eighth Trade Policy Review. 
I would also like to express my appreciation to Malaysia for its comprehensive Government Report, 
and thank the discussant, Ambassador Mr  Alparslan Acarsoy of Türkiye, for his insightful discussion, 
and the WTO Secretariat for its excellent Report.  
4.238.   Malaysia plays an important role in world trade and global economy. Its economy maintained 
stable and resilient even during the COVID -19 pandemic. Although the economy was affected by the 
pandemic in 2020, Malaysia navigated the i mpact of the pandemic comparatively well, with GDP 
growth of approximately 3.1% in 2021. Malaysia currently is the 8th largest economy in Asia, and 
is expected to become a high -income economy between 2024 and 2028. We therefore commend 
Malaysia 's approache s adopted to deal with the pandemic and to support its people and business.  
4.239.   Malaysia plays a proactive role in the WTO. With regards to its transparency commitments, 
Malaysia has registered some important notifications on TBT and SPS which attest its recog nition of 
the significance of transparency. However, we have also noticed that some of its notifications remain 
outstanding, such as those on agriculture, state trading enterprises and the obligation under 
Article  III:3 of the GATS. We therefore encourage Malaysia to make efforts to fulfil its notification 
obligations in these areas. On its participation in the WTO negotiations, Malaysia has joined the Joint 
Statement Initiatives on electronic commerce, investment facilitation for development, and MSMEs. 
We applaud its active engagements in these initiatives. We also understand that Malaysia has been 
an observer of the Committee on Government Procurement (CGP) since 2012. The Agreement on 
Government Procurement (GPA) provides a useful tool for optimizing val ue for money, good 
governance and trade objectives in the government procurement sector. We look forward to 
Malaysia 's accession in the not -too-distant future.  
4.240.   Bilaterally, we are Malaysia 's important investment and trading partner in Asia. We ranked 
as Ma laysia 's fifth largest trading partner, while Malaysia was our seven th largest trading partner 
in 2022. We were also Malaysia 's 10th largest source of foreign direct investment in 2022, with 
accumulated investment reaching nearly US D 14 billion to date. Our businesses have started up 
approximately 1,750  companies in Malaysia. Several renowned high -tech companies have 
announced plans to make their strategic moves to Malaysia. For example, our largest warehousing 
infrastructure developer Ally Logistic  Property, as well as our innovative cloud IT infrastructure 
provider Wiwynn Corporation, were both set to invest in Malaysia in 2022. As Malaysia strives to 
implement its National Policy on Industry 4.0, our expertise and experience in ICT industry can 
surely serve as a basis for a mutually beneficial partnership and assist Malaysia to achieve its policy 
goal. We look forward to further strengthening our bilateral economic cooperation in the future.  
4.241.   We would like to thank Malaysia in advance for its respon se to our written question. Finally, 
we wish Malaysia a productive and successful Trade Policy Review.  
ARGENTINA  
4.242.   En primer lugar, Argentina desea expresar su solidaridad con el pueblo y el Gobierno de 
Türkiye  por la reciente catástrofe.  
4.243.   Quisiéramos sumarno s a los Miembros que han dado la bienvenida a la delegación de 
Malasia, presidida por S .E. Datuk  Isham  Ishak, Secretario General del Ministerio de Industria y 
Comercio Internacional; y extendemos nuestro reconocimiento a nuestras y nuestros colegas de la 
Misión Permanente de Malasia en Ginebra por su excelente labor.  
4.244.   Agradecemos los informes preparados por Malasia y por la Secretaría, así como al 
Excelentísimo Embajador Alparslan  Acarsoy de Türkiye por sus comentarios. Estos elementos nos 
han brindado la in formación para profundizar nuestro entendimiento de las prácticas comerciales y 
el entorno económico de Malasia.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  4.245.   Malasia es un destacado socio comercial de Argentina, con el cual mantenemos una sólida 
relación política y una creciente relación comercial. E n 2021, Argentina fue el segundo país 
latinoamericano que más exportó a Malasia. Además, en los últimos tres años, el comercio bilateral 
ha venido experimentando un notable crecimiento. Se estima que en 2022, el flujo comercial 
ascendió a alrededor de USD 2.000  millones, registrando un saldo superavitario para Argentina.  
4.246.   A Malasia exportamos materias primas de origen agropecuario, alimentos e insumos para la 
industria alimentaria. De Malasia, a su vez, importamos principalmente manufacturas de origen 
indust rial, combustibles, aceites y productos de su destilación.  
4.247.   Argentina está convencida de que, con el compromiso de ambos Estados, se podrá seguir 
potenciando el comercio bilateral en beneficio de los pueblos malasio y argentino.  
4.248.   Con respecto al entorno eco nómico de Malasia, reconocemos los desafíos que representó la 
pandemia. Según lo informado, en 2020, su economía experimentó una contracción del 5,5% del 
PIB real. Celebramos los esfuerzos desplegados por el Gobierno que tuvieron por objeto volver a 
coloca r al país en la senda del crecimiento. Estos esfuerzos se ven claramente reflejados en los 
números macroeconómicos de Malasia. Después de un año desafiante, el PIB real del país aumentó 
un 3,1% en 2021.  
4.249.   Son dignos de mención, también, los múltiples esfuerz os del gobierno para transformar la 
economía de Malasia. En este sentido, Argentina destaca el 12º Plan de Malasia 2021 -2025, que 
persigue que Malasia alcance la condición de país de ingresos altos, se transforme en una economía 
neutra en emisión de gases de efecto invernadero y sea socialmente inclusiva. Malasia aún enfrenta 
varios retos para lograr estos objetivos, pero estamos convencidos que con las políticas correctas, 
podrán ser superados con éxito.  
4.250.   Argentina aprecia enormemente las contribuciones de Malasia al sistema multilateral de 
comercio basado en normas y su participación activa y constructiva en las actividades y órganos de 
esta Organización. Destacamos en particular los esfuerzos multilaterales que ha llevado a cabo para 
la continuación del pr oceso de reforma del comercio agrícola, como Miembro del Grupo CAIRNS, y 
su creciente participación en las negociaciones sobre comercio electrónico y facilitación de 
inversiones así como en el Grupo Informal sobre Comercio y Género.  
4.251.   Asimismo, valoramos qu e Malasia presente activamente notificaciones sobre diversos temas 
abarcados por la OMC y esperamos que esta tendencia continúe afianzándose.  
4.252.   Por último, en el marco de este examen de política comercial, hemos presentado a Malasia 
una serie de preguntas s obre sus líneas arancelarias, certificaciones halal, entre otros temas. 
Agradecemos de antemano las respuestas, las cuales serán debidamente estudiadas por nuestras y 
nuestros colegas en Buenos  Aires.  
4.253.   Además de reiterar nuestro reconocimiento por esta nue va oportunidad de intercambiar 
consideraciones sobre las prácticas comerciales de Malasia, permítanos señalar, una vez más, la 
relevancia de este ejercicio de transparencia en todos sus aspectos y desear a las autoridades 
malasias una exitosa conclusión de l presente examen.  
KAZAKHSTAN  
4.254.   First, let me express my heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathy to the brotherly people 
of Türkiye  over the tragic earthquake that took place in the south -eastern part of the country . 
4.255.   Kazakhstan warmly welcomes the delegation of Malaysia led by Mr Datuk  Isham  Ishak, 
Secretary General of the Ministry of International Trade and Industry of Malaysia. We express our 
gratitude to the Government of Malaysia for their informative Report and statement. We also thank 
Ambassador Alparslan  Acarsoy (Türkiye) for his insightful comments as a discussant and the WTO 
Secretariat for its comprehensive Report.  
4.256.   Kazakhstan enjoys fruitful bilateral cooperation with Malaysia and attaches high importance 
to further deepening economic and trade relations.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  4.257.   In 2022, our bilateral merchandise trade volume increased by 40% despite the challenges 
in a global economy and constituted USD 145 million.  
4.258.   Aside from trade, the volume of direct investments from Malaysia to Kazakhstan over the 
past 30  years has exceeded USD 1 billion into sectors such as oil and gas, construction, 
infrastructure development, green energy , and digital technologies. Moreover, several Malaysian 
enterprises successfully operate within  the Astana International Financial Centre.  
4.259.   We commend the Government of Malaysia for implementing an ambitious reform agenda 
since its last Review. Particularly we emphasize the Twelfth Malaysian Plan for 2021 -2025, which is 
aimed at resetting the economy , improving well -being and inclusivity. The 2021 Digital Economy 
Blueprint focused on transforming Malaysia into a digitally -driven, high -income nation and ultimately 
becoming a regional leader in the digital economy is also commendable.  
4.260.   Kazakhstan also we lcomes the ongoing comprehensive reforms initiated by the Malaysia 
under the "National Trade Blueprint" launched in 2021 to increase Malaysia's trade competitiveness 
through an improved business ecosystem and enhance Malaysia's position as an exporting cou ntry. 
4.261.   We believe that these efforts will contribute to the sustainable and resilient economic growth 
of Malaysia and help to achieve its transition from an upper middle -income economy to a 
high-income economy by 2024, as stated in the World  Bank's report.  
4.262.   From the multilateral trading perspective, we welcome Malaysia's full implementation of its 
TFA commitments within the review period and its hard work on the successful implementation of 
the trade facilitation measures by streamlining customs procedures th rough its National Single 
Window, Self -Certification Scheme and Customs Transit System.  
4.263.   At the same time, we would like to inform that Kazakhstan submitted questions regarding 
certain trade policies of Malaysia on export subsidies and local content, as wel l as TBT -related 
measures. We are looking forward to receiving Malaysia's responses and constructive discussion on 
these issues.  
4.264.   In conclusion, we would like to congratulate the delegation of Malaysia and the WTO 
Secretariat for the hard work and efforts t hat went into preparing for this TPR. We also would like 
to express our appreciation to Ambassador Syahril Syazli Ghazali and his team in Geneva.  
4.265.   We wish the delegation of the Malaysia every success for their eighth Trade Policy Review.  
INDONESIA ON BEHALF  OF THE ASEAN  
4.266.   Indonesia is making this statement on behalf of ASEAN.  It is a great pleasure to warmly 
welcome the delegation from Malaysia led by Mr Datuk  Isham  Ishak, Secretary General of the 
Ministry of International Trade and Industry of Malaysia to the ir eighth Trade Policy Review. We 
thank the Government of Malaysia and the WTO Secretariat for the comprehensive Reports, as well 
as H.E. Ambassador Alparslan Acarsoy of Türkiye  for his role as discussant.  
4.267.   Indeed, as one of the founding fathers of ASEAN, M alaysia has played a crucial role in 
facilitating and shaping the overall development and progress of ASEAN. Malaysia 's trading 
relationship with other ASEAN member States is going strong ever since. In 2021, trade with ASEAN 
member States was accounts for  26% of Malaysia's total trade with the world.  
4.268.   ASEAN member States welcome Malaysia's consistent efforts in promoting trade 
liberalization and modernization. These efforts will certainly encourage and increase intra -ASEAN 
trade, contributing to the regional economic integration objectives of the ASEAN Economic 
Community.  
4.269.   Malaysia and ASEAN member States have cooperated at different levels and in various areas. 
In addition to ASEAN FTA and ASEAN Plus FTAs, Malaysia has made a positive contribution in the 
negotiation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement, which entered 
into force for Malaysia on 18 March  2022.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  4.270.   ASEAN takes note of the commendable performance of Malaysia's economy since its last 
Trade Policy Review in 2018. M alaysia 's economy has been transformed into one of the strongest, 
most diversified, and fastest -growing countries in Southeast Asia. Alongside its primary production, 
such as rubber, palm oil, petroleum, and natural gas, Malaysia has also successfully deve loped 
export -oriented manufacturing to fuel its economic growth.  
4.271.   Malaysia 's real GDP growth has been strong and on its targeted growth trajectory. The 
Malaysian economy demonstrated well its resilience despite continued uncertainties and challenges 
in the global environment, including the COVID -19 pandemic. While recording an average GDP 
growth of 1.6% during the period of 2018 -2021, in 2021, Malaysia 's external trade surpassed 
MYR 2 trillion for the first time and recorded the fastest growth since 1994.  
4.272.   In ensuring the stability of its economic growth, ASEAN notes the innovative economic policy 
of Malaysia, such as the Twelfth Malaysia Plan, 2021 -2025, which renews the Eleventh Malaysia 
Plan; the National Fourth Industrial Revolution Policy; and the Nationa l Trade Blueprint.  
4.273.   ASEAN also commends Malaysia for its strong commitment to the multilateral trading 
system, including its contribution and constructive involvement in several areas of work and 
negotiations at the WTO.  
4.274.   Last but not least, several ASEAN member States in WTO have submitted written questions 
to Malaysia and we would like to express our appreciation in advance to Malaysia 's written responses.  
4.275.   Finally, we would also like to thank the Malaysian delegation for their constructive 
engagement, and commend the contribution of H.E.  Ambassador Syahril Syazli Ghazali and 
members of the Malaysian Permanent Mission in Geneva for their hard work. We wish Malaysia a 
successful eighth  Trade Policy Review.  
INDONESIA  
4.276.   First of all, Indonesia extends deepest sym pathies and condolences to  the Government and 
the people of Türkiye, we stand in full solidarity with the Government and the people of Türkiye in 
facing this difficult time . 
4.277.   Indonesia warmly welcomes t he Malaysian delegation  Mr Datuk Isham Ishak, Secretary  
General of the Malaysian Ministry of International Trade and Industry, as well as the Ambassador 
Syahril Syazli Ghazali. We thank Malaysia for its comprehensive Government Report and statement. 
We would also like to express our appreciation to the Chair A mbassador Didier Chambovey 
(Switzerland ), the discussant Ambassador Alparslan Acarsoy (Türkiye), as well as the Secretariat for 
their insightful Reports and statements.  
4.278.   Malaysia is a significant trade and investment partner, as well as a close friend for I ndonesia. 
Even though there is  not a consistent pattern in the two -way trade between the two countries, 
Indonesia has maintained a trade surplus since 2018 with trend at 50.79% over the previous five 
years. Malaysia is also the fifth largest importer of se rvices, particularly in the areas of travel, 
telecommunications, transportation, other services, and other business services.  
4.279.   As the Secretariat Report notes, Malaysia is a strong supporter of multilateral cooperation 
and remains actively engaged at the WT O. The Report also points out that Malaysia remains an 
upper middle -income country expected to become a high -income economy between 2024 and 2028, 
and one of the most open economies in the world.  
4.280.   In addition, we acknowledge Malaysia 's efforts to reform th e direction of its development 
policy through the Twelfth Malaysia Plan  2021-2025, in order to ensure an inclusive and meaningful 
socio-economic  development towards a more prosperous society. This policy also is an effort to 
address the difficult situation  brought on by the COVID -19 pandemic. Indonesia shares Malaysia's 
view that trade, along with the WTO's non -discrimination and transparency principles, promotes 
stability, security, and predictability in the conduct of trade, as well as benefits for invest ors and 
traders.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  4.281.   This is even more important in the face of adversity, including the impact of the COVID -19 
pandemic on food security. We must work together to overcome these challenges. In this regard, 
Malaysia and Indonesia are on the same page, supporti ng WTO reform efforts, as well as being a 
strong advocate of the multilateral trading system and advocates for finding permanent solutions to 
the issue of public agricultural commodity stocks.  
4.282.   During the review period, Malaysia made a number of commitments  to regional integration 
through ASEAN -Hong Kong,  China FTA, which was signed in March  2018; the Regional 
Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement, which entered into force on 
1 January  2022; and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans -Pacific Partnership 
(CPTPP), which became effective for Malaysia on 29  November  2022.  
4.283.   In the area of intellectual property, we applaud Malaysia 's progress on acceding to important 
intellectual property treaties, such as the Madrid Proto col, the Marrakesh VIP Treaty, and the 
Budapest Treaty.  
4.284.   During this TPR, Indonesia looks forward to learn ing more about Malaysia's import 
prohibitions, restrictions, and licensing policy. Specifically, we would appreciate more information 
regarding the rationale behind and the connections between certain products that are prohibited 
from being imported or transp orted through Malaysia and the protection of human health or safety, 
the environment, or on religious grounds. We also anticipate learning more about the New Open 
AP Policy, which indicated that domestically produced vehicles in Malaysia are treated differ ently 
from imported vehicles.  
4.285.   Indonesia values Malaysia as a significant partner, including in the automotive sector, given 
that Malaysia is an export destination country for Indonesian motorcycles. The proposed New Open 
AP policy may result in increased p roduction costs or even a decline in Indonesia's exports to 
Malaysia. We look forward to continuing to collaborate with Malaysia in our efforts to increase and 
sustain trade.  
4.286.   We appreciate and look forward to Malaysia's written responses to our questions.  
MAURITIUS  
4.287.   I take this opportunity to express our deepest sympathy to the Turkish people for the loss 
of lives and the massive damages caused by the earthquakes this week which are among the largest 
and deadliest in decades.  
4.288.   We welcome the delegation of Mal aysia led by Mr Datuk Isham Ishak, Secretary General of 
the Ministry of International Trade and Industry.  
4.289.   We commend the Government of Malaysia for undertaking this important transparency 
exercise, in line with the WTO 's requirements, and thank Datuk  Isham  for highlighting the salient 
features of trade and trade related policy measures taken by the country during the period under 
review. We also thank the Secretariat for its Report as well as Ambassador Acarsoy, today 's 
discussant for his insightful remarks  that has set the stage for the review exercise.  
4.290.   Malaysia is indeed one of the most open economies in the world and this openness has 
played a key role in job creation and income growth. We were pleased to note that the Malaysian 
economy is expected to bou nce back with GDP growth in 2022 expected to be between 5.3 % and 
6.3%. This is highly commendable especially as many Members are still reeling from the fallout of 
the COVID -19 pandemic.  
4.291.   Mauritius congratulates Malaysia for its development driven policies a nd initiatives to 
digitali ze and moderni ze its economy in view of becoming a high -income country. We are impressed 
by the contribution of around 22% by the digital economy to the country 's GDP, thanks to the 
implementation of the Digital Economy Blueprint.  
4.292.   Malaysia 's manufacturing sector is also remarkable and the government policies for the 
adoption of new technologies is testimony to the intent of the country to maintain the sector 
competitive and resilient. We, nonetheless, request Malaysia to consider r educing its regulatory WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
- 40 - 
 
  discretionary powers, especially for the service s sector, including financial services. Mauritius being 
an international financial services centre in the African region would welcome the opportunity to 
team up with Malaysia towards t he implementation of the Malaysian financial sector blueprint 
2022-2026. Closer cooperation between our two countries in this field could help bridge investment 
between the Africa and Asia.  
4.293.   With respect to intellectual property rights, we are glad to note that Malaysia is also 
moderni zing its IP regulatory framework and has joined the Madrid Protocol, the Marrakesh Treaty, 
and the Budapest Treaty. Mauritius has itself identified IP as being a crucial in our efforts to transform 
our industries for more value -added services and products.  
4.294.   We also commend the Malaysian authorities for working with the relevant international 
organi zations in their effort to enhancing the work environment, including the strengthening of 
worker 's rights and the eradication of force d labour. We are also pleased to note the country 's 
continued commitment in ensuring women and youth empowerment.  
4.295.   Mauritius and Malaysia enjoy excellent relations. As an example of socio -economic 
development and stability, Malaysia is a popular destination  for tourists, students, and professionals 
from Mauritius. However, while trade exchange between our two countries has consistently increased 
over the years, the balance remains highly skewed in favour of our Malaysian friends. We encourage 
Malaysia to fur ther consolidate and strengthen its trade and investment relations with Mauritius. For 
instance, we could cooperate in various fields, such as industrial development, tourism, financial 
services, and education.  
4.296.   In conclusion, we look forward to working in collaboration with the Malaysian delegation in 
advancing the interests of developing countries at the WTO, including on reforms and fisheries 
subsidy negotiations as well as in the joint statement initiatives on e -commerce and investment 
facilitation.  
4.297.   We w ish Malaysia a successful Review.  
FIJI 
4.298.   Fiji welcomes the delegation of Malaysia to its eighth Trade Policy Review led by Mr  Datuk 
Isham Ishak, Secretary General  of Ministry of International Trade and Industry of Malaysia and we 
the thank the delegation for  its detailed Report. We also acknowledge the WTO Secretariat 's efforts 
in the compilation of its Report and thank them for their hard work. We commend the discussant 
Ambassador Alparslan Acarsoy of Türkiye for his thorough review of the Report and take th is 
opportunity to extend Fiji 's sincere condolences to the Government of Türkiye for the loss of life and 
extensive damage caused by the recent earthquake in Türkiye.  
4.299.   Malaysia 's economic development and progress has been significant for the international 
community generally, but particularly for the ASEAN region, with their flow on benefits and impacts 
on small economies or small island developing states like Fiji in the Pacific region.  
4.300.   Malaysia 's strong economic standing is commendable, one which Fiji has been following with 
interest. It was the reason Fiji established formal diplomatic relations with Malaysia in 1977, seven  
years after Fiji gained independence.  
4.301.   Two-way trade between Malaysia and Fiji have grown steadily over the years. Rece nt studies 
peg two -way trade at around USD 109.5  million. At present, Malaysia is Fiji 's 26th largest trading 
partner but our hope is to improve that ranking by increasing both exports and imports between our 
countries.  
4.302.   Fiji is keen to grow its bilateral a nd economic relationship with Malaysia, to cover all sectors.  
4.303.   On tourism, although our tourism exchange has grown, with total earnings at around 
USD 3.2 million from Malaysian tourists, we know that will expand further with stronger air links 
facilitated by Fiji 's local airline, Fiji Airways, via Singapore.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  4.304.   On investment, we are keen to expand the current average of two projects per  year of 
Malaysian investment in Fiji, in the coming years. FDI flows from Malaysia to Fiji amounted to 
USD 6.7 million in the  last reporting period. To enhance investment efforts, an Export Acceleration 
Mission (EAM) between our two countries was initiated in June  2019, on the eve of the global 
pandemic. That event triggered a matchmaking exercise to establish compatibilities be tween our 
private sector companies that we intend to grow further.  
4.305.   We commend the Malaysian economic model, such as the Eleventh Malaysia Plan 
(2016 -2020) and the Twelfth Malaysia Plan (2021 -2025), both in framework and in the 
Government 's effort in mater ializing those plans to bring about robust economic advancement. The 
inclusion of technology innovation and accelerants, enhancing connectivity and transport 
infrastructure, as well as improving the standard of living to achieve a balanced and sustainable 
growth for the Malaysian people, are noteworthy and instructive for our own national development.  
4.306.   Looking ahead, Fiji will work closely with Malaysia through our respective government 
agencies and private sector partnerships to grow our bilateral and econo mic relationship. We will 
also maintain the positive engagement we enjoy with the Malaysian delegation here in Geneva and 
at other multilateral for a.  
4.307.   We wish the Malaysian delegation every success for its Review.  
SWITZERLAND  
4.308.   On behalf of Switzerland, I wo uld like to join previous speakers in welcoming to this TPR 
Malaysia 's delegation led by H.E.  Dr Datuk Isham Ishak – Secretary General of the Ministry of 
International Trade and Industry. A warm welcome also to H.E.  Ambassador Syahril Syazli Ghazali. 
I am furthermore grateful to the discussant, H.E. Ambassador Alparslan  Acarsoy from Türkyie, and 
to the Secretariat for their substantive contributions.  
4.309.   On behalf of Switzerland, I would also like to take this opportunity to express our sorrow 
and convey our sincere condolences to the people of Türkyie, who are currently going through tragic 
circumstances.  
4.310.   Malaysia is indeed an important WTO  Member with w hich Switzerland is constantly 
strengthening its trade relations. Malaysia is Switzerland 's sixth trading partner in Southeast Asia, 
with bilateral trade amounting to CHF  2.3 billion. While imports from Switzerland to Malaysia 
increased by 2% in 2022, Mala ysia's exports to Switzerland rose by almost 10 %. Switzerland and 
EFTA partners are also negotiating an economic partnership agreement with Malaysia and hope to 
conclude it soon.  
4.311.   Switzerland did not submit any questions to Malaysia at this iteration of it s Trade Policy 
Review but we are most thankful for the excellent Reports from the Secretariat and the Malaysian 
authorities and keen to listen to the discussions today.  
4.312.   We closely observe Malaysia 's active and productive trade policy. In addition of  being  a 
constructive WTO Member, we note and commend that Malaysia, since the last Trade Policy Review, 
has ratified several trade agreements, including the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, 
as well as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans -Pacific Partnership. We also note 
Malaysia 's full implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, certainly a model for many 
other WTO Members to follow. Furthermore, let me underscore Malaysia 's accession to various 
instruments in the area of intellectual property. We would also like commend Malaysia on its active 
participation in the Joint Statement Initiatives on e -commerce, investment facilitation for 
development, and MSMEs. This underlines Malaysia 's commitment to open and rules -based trade, a 
commitment Switzerland deeply shares with Malaysia. We also encourage the Malaysian authorities 
to build up on its observer status at the Committee on Government Procurement to further 
appreciate the benefits of acceding to the Government Procu rement Agreement (GPA) and how it 
can support the domestic reform process.  
4.313.   Turning to the broader economic context, the effects of the COVID -19 pandemic cannot be 
overlooked. The fact that Malaysia 's economy managed to return to its strong growth path alre ady 
in 2021 is very impressive. We note that the balanced fiscal situation has allowed Malaysia to adopt WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  measures to provide relief after the onset of the crisis. The current challenges of inflation, growing 
inequality and unemployment are shared by many W TO Members, and we wish Malaysia the best of 
success at tackling these issues.  
4.314.   We also commend Malaysia 's ambition to become, as stated under the Twelfth Malaysia Plan, 
a carbon -neutral economy. Without commitment from the highest political level, WTO Memb ers will 
not succeed in meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement, and we hope Malaysia can follow through 
on this commitment, which is a challenge for all Members.  
4.315.   Sustainability issues more broadly are of key importance to realize the goals of an inclusiv e 
trade policy. Vegetable oils are the main agricultural export commodity in Malaysia, and Switzerland 
in particular welcomes and keenly follows Malaysia 's efforts to strengthen the sustainability of the 
palm oil sector.  
4.316.   To conclude, let me underscore once  again the excellent cooperation Switzerland enjoys with 
Malaysia in many WTO work streams and our shared commitment to finding cooperative solutions 
to global problems. We hope that Malaysia will be able to continue on its rapid path of growth and 
take th e necessary reform steps to address the current challenges, both economic and with regard 
to meeting the goals of sustainable development. We wish Malaysia a successful continuation of the 
Trade Policy Review.  
URUGUAY  
4.317.   En primer lugar, expresamos nuestras c ondolencias al Gobierno y al pueblo de Türkiye  por 
las pérdidas de vidas humanas a causa de los recientes terremotos.  
4.318.   Uruguay desea brindar la más cordial bienvenida a la delegación de Malasia, encabezada por 
el Sr. Datuk Isham Ishak, Secretario General Mi nisterio de Industria y Comercio Internacional, en 
oportunidad del octavo examen de sus políticas comerciales, a quien agradecemos por su 
presentación. Asimismo, agradecemos a la Secretaría por su completo informe y el Embajador 
Alparslan  Acarsoy, por su d emostrativa interpretación del análisis realizado.  
4.319.   A nivel bilateral, nuestros países mantienen un estable intercambio comercial, aunque 
muestra mucho potencial para su crecimiento, sobre todo en el sector de alimentos de alta calidad. 
Nuestros principales  productos de exportación son los del sector lácteos y derivados de la madera. 
Observamos una interesante corriente comercial en el sector de carnes hasta el año 2018, un 
intercambio que pretendemos retomar a la brevedad posible. Al respecto, instamos a Ma lasia agilizar 
los procesos de habilitación sanitarias y fitosanitarias, así como certificados de corte religioso, con 
el fin de garantizar un apropiado suministro de alimentos a su mercado.  
4.320.   Por otra parte, nuestras importaciones se concentran en derivado s del petróleo, y bienes de 
la industria liviana, con una significativa estabilidad en el tiempo.  
4.321.   A nivel multilateral, ambos coincidimos en que la OMC juega una función central en el 
sistema multilateral de comercio basado en normas. Esto nos brinda un es cenario de certidumbre 
necesario para asegurar que los Acuerdos de esta casa sigan siendo relevantes y a la altura de las 
circunstancias que nos imponen los desafíos globales.  
4.322.   Trabajamos juntos en la implementación de los compromisos asumidos en la 12° Con ferencia 
Ministerial, el "Paquete de Ginebra ", en la implementación del acuerdo para impedir los subsidios a 
la pesca ilegal, no declarada y no reglamentada, así como en agricultura, en todos los temas relativos 
a lucha contra la pandemia de  la COVID -19 y en la reforma de la OMC.  
4.323.   Agradecemos los esfuerzos y la flexibilidad de Malasia para sumarse como co -proponentes 
del paquete de recomendaciones y declaraciones del Grupo Informal sobre mipymes en el año 2020, 
destinadas a incrementar la participación de la s pequeñas y medianas empresas en el comercio 
internacional. Observamos el desarrollo de las iniciativas de Malasia destinadas a la digitalización, 
como el portal MapasyaBiz, a fin de ampliar el acceso a los mercados, así como el establecimiento 
de una hoj a de ruta para el ecosistema de empresas emergentes y MYStartup. En ese sentido, 
alentamos a que continúen sus esfuerzos con la plena implementación del conjunto de 
recomendaciones. Contamos con su apoyo para continuar logrando resultados en el Grupo Infor mal WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  sobre mipymes, aportando sus experiencias y temas de interés de cara a la 13°  Conferencia 
Ministerial.  
4.324.   La OMC es una Organización multilateral y las mipymes son un asunto global. Necesitamos 
la voz y los aportes de los Miembros dentro del Grupo Informa l sobre este tema, para mejorar el 
desarrollo de masa crítica y de buenas prácticas.  
4.325.   Nuestros mejores deseos para un exitoso examen de política comercial.  
CAMBODIA  
4.326.   First let me join other delegations to extend my deep condolences to Türkiye people  for the 
loss caused by the recent earthquake destruction.   
4.327.   Cambodia associates itself with the ASEAN statement made by Indonesia. My delegation is 
pleased to participate in the eighth  Trade Policy Review of Malaysia and warmly welcome s the 
delegation of Malays ia, led by H .E. Mr Datuk  Isham  Ishak, Secretary General Ministry of 
International Trade and Industry of Malaysia.  
4.328.   Our special thanks also go the discussant, Ambassador H.E.  Mr Alparslan Acarsoy of Türkiye, 
for his insightful and constructive remarks. We a ppreciate the Reports prepared by the TPR 
Secretariat and the Government of Malaysia, which outline recent developments in their respective 
trade policies and practices.  
4.329.   Cambodia wishes to congratulate Malaysia for maintaining remarkable economic growth an d 
predictable trade policy framework, despite the COVID -19 pandemic and global challenges.  
4.330.   Bilaterally, Cambodia and Malaysia have enjoyed a strong and highly complementary 
economic relationship through evolving bilateral and regional integration initiativ es such as the 
ASEAN and ASEAN plus mechanisms.  
4.331.   In terms of economic tie s, Malaysia is an important trade and investment partner for 
Cambodia. Bilateral Cambodia -Malaysia trade in 2022 has increased by 20.26% to reach 
USD 602.37  million compared to US D 500.86 million in 2021. In terms of investment, Malaysia 
investors have been a driving force since the 1990s in Cambodia, considered first -generation 
investors when Cambodia opened to international trade and began rebuilding its economy. Malaysia 
is the thir d largest investor in Cambodia with FDI worth US D 3.53 billion from 1994 -2020, just 
behind China and the Republic of Korea. Malaysia 's investments are mainly in the banking and 
finance, telecommunications, agriculture, power generation, information, and co mmunication 
technology (ICT), hotel and real estates, and entertainment sectors.  
4.332.   We also acknowledge the essential role and contribution of Malaysia in the WTO multilateral 
trading system and regional trade arrangements especially within the ASEAN framewor k. 
4.333.   Finally,  we commit to working closely with Malaysia especially delegation of the Malaysia in 
Geneva to strengthen our good cooperation for economic prosperity and sustainable development. 
We wish Malaysia a successful conclusion of its eighth TPR.  
KYRGY Z REPUBLIC  
4.334.   First of all, I would like to take this opportunity to express Kyrgyz  Republic's deepest 
condolences to the brotherly  people of Türkiye for the losses caused by the devastating earthquakes 
that took place this week.  
4.335.   The Kyrgyz  Republic warmly welcomes the delegation of Malaysia on the eighth  Trade Policy 
Review led by H.E.  Mr Datuk  Isham  Ishak , Secretary General of the Ministry of International Trade 
and Industry of Malaysia.  
4.336.   We would like to thank the WTO Secretariat and the Government of Malaysia for preparing 
such comprehensive and detailed Trade Policy Review Reports. We would also like to t hank the WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  discussant, H.E.  Mr Alparslan  Acarsoy, Permanent Representative of Türkiye  to the WTO for his 
insightful comments.  
4.337.   Since the beginning of its membership to the WTO Malaysia has demonstrated highest 
dedication to WTO rules and, as it has been said in TPR of 2018, has convincingly shown its 
commitment to trade liberalization under the multilateral trading system centred on the WTO.  
4.338.   Among many other successful steps on the WTO platform are acceptance of Trade Facilitation 
Agreement and Protocol Amend ing the TRIPS  Agreement . 
4.339.   The diplomatic relations between the Kyrgyz  Republic and Malaysia were established in 
1992. For the period of trade and economic relations, Malaysia became a reliable trading partner for 
the Kyrgyz  Republic.  
4.340.   Regular official visit s of high delegations of both countries on a mutual basis have created 
favourable conditions for discussions strengthening the potential of trade and investment 
cooperation between the two countries.  
4.341.   Our countries have discussed in different platforms a wi de range of issues on further 
expansion of cooperation between the Kyrgyz  Republic and Malaysia, where the Malaysian party is 
informed about trade and economic opportunities of the Kyrgyz  Republic, as well as actual issues of 
regional and international iss ues of mutual interest.  
4.342.   Partly, due to the pandemic crisis, the export -import volume between the Kyrgyz  Republic 
and Malaysia ha s fallen 2.2 times from 2018 to 2021. However, for the 10  months of 2022, the trade 
turnover has shown increase by 2.1 times co mparing to the analogical period of 2021.  
4.343.   The main imports from Malaysia are telephone sets and their parts, integrated circuits, palm 
oil, coconut oil, cocoa powder, essential oils, soap and detergents, various mechanical devices for 
industry and their pa rts, automobiles, rubber products, ceramics, and various ready -made products. 
The main exports from the Kyrgyz  Republic  to Malaysia are natural honey, oil products (jet fuel) , 
and air pumps.  
4.344.   The Kyrgyz  Republic and Malaysia are on their way of gradual esta blishing of mutually 
beneficial trade links. For now, in our view, the volume of trade between the Kyrgyz  Republic and 
Malaysia is still far from the existing potential of trade between the two countries, and there is a big 
room for further development.  
4.345.   The Kyrgyz  Republic has further capacity of export expansion of organically pure food 
products such as honey, walnut, raisins, mushrooms, meat and others. Halal industry requirements 
of Malaysia would stimulate for improving the quality of exported goods.  
4.346.   The Kyrgyz  Republic and Malaysia has entrenched ties in trade in services. Malaysia is one 
of the most attractive touristic destinations for Kyrgyz citizens. We do believe that the 
Kyrgyz  Republic will find its own place for tourists from Malaysia. Integra tion in educational sphere 
contributes a lot for development of services. Financial sectors based on Islamic principles also 
attracts interest of the Kyrgyz  Republic.  
4.347.   On this regard, the two countries have enormous potential to further strengthening of 
cooperation in trade in services.  
4.348.   Finally, the Kyrgyz  Republic wishes a very successful eighth Trade Policy Review to the 
delegation of Malaysia.  
VIET NAM 
4.349.   Viet Nam warmly welcomes the delegation of Malaysia led by H.E. Mr Datuk  Isham  Ishak, 
Secretary General of the Ministry of International Trade and Industry of Malaysia to their eighth 
Trade Policy Review.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  4.350.   Viet Nam would also like to thank the Government of Malaysia and the WTO Secretariat for 
their comprehensive Reports, which creat ed the foundation for our discussion today. We also express 
our appreciation to the discussant , H.E. Ambassador Alparslan  Acarsoy, Permanent Representative 
of Türkiye for his insightful comments. We would like to take th is opportunity to express our deepes t 
condolences and solidarity with Türkiye for the loss of the people of Türkiye caused  by the recent 
devasting earthquake . 
4.351.   Viet Nam would like to associate itself with the ASEAN joint statement delivered by 
Indonesia.  
4.352.   Viet Nam commends Malaysia for its ach ievements as a middle -income country, particularly 
with a GDP per  capita of USD 11,422 in 2021 and the objective to become a high -income country 
between 2024 -2028.  
4.353.   Viet Nam takes note that Malaysia 's Twelfth Plan for the period 2021 -2025 is designed to 
inject fundamental reforms to alter its development trajectory, focusing on three key themes (i.e. 
resetting the economy; strengthening security, well -being, and inclusivity; and advancing 
sustainability) and four catalytic policy enablers (i.e. developing t alents ; accelerating innovation and 
technology adoption; enhancing connectivity and transport infrastructure; and improving public 
service).  
4.354.   Furthermore, Viet  Nam notes that Malaysia is identified as one of the most open economies 
in the world, with 40% o f the country 's jobs linked to export activities, and 70% of its merchandise 
trade accounted by the Asian region.  
4.355.   Viet Nam acknowledges Malaysia 's major contribution to the WTO and its active participation 
in various processes ongoing in the multilateral trading system. Viet  Nam encourages Malaysia to 
continue playing an active role in the WTO to improve the functioning of the multilateral trading 
system.  
4.356.   At the regional level, Viet  Nam and Malaysia have maintained and are promoting close 
collaboration und er the ASEAN framework. Outstanding economic cooperation activities undertaken 
between the two countries for enhancing regional trade so far include upgraded negotiation of the 
ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA), the building of the ASEAN Economic Comm unity Vision 
after 2025, upgraded negotiation of the ASEAN -Australia -New Zealand Free Trade Agreement 
(AANZFTA), as well as negotiation of the ASEAN -Canada Free Trade Agreement (ACaFTA).  
4.357.   At the bilateral level, Viet  Nam and Malaysia have remained a strong  and stable trade 
relationship during the last five years. In the ASEAN region, Malaysia is Viet  Nam's second -largest 
trading partner and our third -largest export market. Bilateral trade volume between the two 
countries in 2022 reached USD 14.7 billion, a year-on-year growth of 16.8%. Among these, exports 
from Viet  Nam to Malaysia were USD 5.57 billion and imports to Viet  Nam from Malaysia were 
USD 9.12 billion, an increase of 26.1% and 11.7% respectively over the same period. We do hope 
that the two countries could continue working closely toward a more balanced trade in the coming 
time.  
4.358.   Before closing our statement, our delegation would also like to co mmend the contribution of 
H.E. Ambassador Syahril Syazli Ghazali and his able team at the Mission in Geneva for their active 
engagement and contribution to the work of the WTO. We wish Malaysia a successful Trade Policy 
Review.  
BANGLADESH  
4.359.   At the outset, Ba ngladesh delegation welcomes H.E.  Mr Datuk  Isham  Ishak, Head of 
Delegation and Secretary General of International Trade and Industry, and thank for his introductory 
presentation at their TPR. We also thank H.E.  Ambassador Alparslan  Acarsoy of Türkiye for h is 
insightful discussion and express our deepest condolence and solidarity to the Government and 
people of Türkiye for the death of several thousands of people due to the recent catastrophic 
earthquake in Türkiye and Syria) Our sincere appreciation goes to  the Government of Malaysia and 
WTO Secretariat for the comprehensive Reports.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  4.360.   Trade has long been an important part of Malaysia's economy and also an important 
connector, this has been reinforced during the global COVID -19 pandemic. During the review, 
2017-22 Malaysia's trade policy has been anchored to the priorities outlined in the Eleventh  and 
Twelfth Malaysia Plan s, these include accelerating technology adoption, innovation, enhancing 
connectivity, transport infrastructure improving the stan dards of living, and sustainable growth. The 
strategies are more crucial for ensuring Malaysia's economic trajectory post -pandemic.  
4.361.   As a firm supporter of the multilateral trading system, Malaysia remains actively engaged at 
the WTO, Malaysia's trade polic y priority on multinational non -discriminatory rules is complemented 
by a goal of continuous expansion and deepening trade relations through regional and bilateral 
approach. It addresses high importance to reducing the gap in the level of development betwe en 
nations to promoting further integration of developing and LDCs into the global economy and to the 
need to make economic development more sustainable. Malaysia remains more susceptible than 
others to changing circumstances in the external environment.  
4.362.   Bangladesh and Malaysia enjoy excellent bilateral trade and economic relation, though 
bilateral trade is largely tilted towards Malaysia, as one of the largest destination of Bangladeshi 
students, skilled and semi -skilled workers in the East, Malaysia host s about 800,000 Bangladeshi 
expats. An institutional mechanism of dialogue has contributed to the deepening of our relations, 
bilateral trade between Bangladesh and Malaysia have been cemented since the establishment of 
diplomatic ties in 1972, being one o f the big trading nations in the world. Malaysia is considered as 
a regional hub of trade among the ASEAN countries.  
4.363.   In recent years, trade between Bangladesh and Malaysia is expanding increasingly that make 
Bangladesh the second largest trading partner of  Malaysia in South Asia. Bangladeshi imported 
goods were USD  3.28 billion from Malaysia in the financial year 2020 -21, while exporting goods only 
USD 337.81  million. Major Bangladeshi exports are RMG garments, vegetables, potatoes, cereals, 
fruit juice, ph armaceutical, tea, spices, etc. Bangladeshi imports from Mauritius include minerals, 
mineral fuel -oil, distillation products, etc., there is a scope to further strengthening the trade relation 
and both sides are working for adjusting the framework of bilat eral cooperation as well as through 
non-traditional means.  
4.364.   Bangladesh offers industrial -friendly and congenial climate for foreign investors, almost all 
of the sectors allowed foreign investment without any capping. To ease the investors from paying 
double  tax. Bangladesh has signed avoidance of double taxation treaty with Malaysia four decades 
before for promotion and protecting investment.  
4.365.   Bangladesh has taken initiative to establish 100  economic zones the country to create 
structured and balanced investm ent and invites Malaysian investors as a unit investor or developed 
sector -specific specially economic zones in energy, petrochemical, shipbuilding, recycling, IT, 
tourism, apparel, textiles, and agro -processing, etc.  
4.366.   To conclude, we wish the delegation of  Malaysia a productive and successful TPR, my 
delegation will continue to work closely with the delegation of Malaysia led by H.E.  Ambassador 
Syahril  Syazli  Ghazali, Permanent Representative of Malaysia to the WTO, to strengthen the 
multilateral trading sy stem while we strive to enhance our bilateral trade.  
KENYA  
4.367.   I join other delegates in welcoming the delegation of Malaysia, led by H.E.  Mr Datuk 
Isham  Ishak, Secretary General of the Ministry of International Trade and Industry, to Geneva for 
their eighth  Trade Policy Review. I also wish to thank the discussant, Ambassador  Acarsoy, for 
setting the scene even in the wake of the calamity that has struck the Republic of Türkiye, our 
sympathy goes with the people of Türkiye. I also acknowledge the Secretariat's  commendable effort 
towards preparing the comprehensive Report.  
4.368.   Malaysia is an upper income country, aspiring to achieve high -income status between 2024 
and 2028, it is one of the most open and diverse economies in the world, with about 40% of jobs 
linked to export activities. The Malaysian economy was on its targeted growth trajectory expanding 
by 4.6% over the review period, mainly driven by strong private consumption and net exports, 
before a 5.6% GDP contraction in 2020 following the COVID -19 outbreak. Fortunately, in 2021, the WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  economy continued to expand by 3.1% attributed to improving domestic demand and robust export 
performance. The agriculture sector's GDP contribution remains stable between 6% and 8% with a 
compound annual growth rate of 1.93% from  2016 to 2020.  
4.369.   Over the review period, Malaysia's trade policies have been anchored on the priorities 
outlined in the Eleventh  and Twelfth  Malaysian Plans of 2016 -2020 and 2021 -2025 respectively, 
these priorities included accelerating technology adoption a nd innovation, enhancing connectivity 
and transport infrastructure, and improving the standard of living to achieve balanced and 
sustainable growth.  
4.370.   We note with interest that Malaysia a record -high surplus in 2020, recorded double -digit 
growth for the fo urth consecutive year since 2017, despite the pandemic. In 2021, Malaysia's 
external trade surpassed USD  500 billion for the first time and recorded the fastest trade growth 
since 1994, exports value grew to record -high of USD  299 billion in 2021. Between January and 
June 2022 trade rose by 28.2% to USD  316 billion compared to the same period in 2021.  
4.371.   We commend Malaysia for implementing all categories under the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement as of 1  June 2021, its accession to the Madrid  Protocol is also wel come, along with 
associated promulgation of the new Trademark Act and trademark regulations for compatibility with 
regard to extending the scope of protection to non -traditional marks, collective marks and 
certification marks and providing stringent penalt ies for infringement.  
4.372.   Kenya and Malaysia enjoy cordial bilateral relations buttressed by the increasingly positive 
growth in trade and investment, cooperation in multilateral fora, as well as capacity building through 
the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Pr ogramme, which affords the citizens of the two countries a 
platform to learn and share experiences and best practices on a wide range of issues, such as the 
infrastructural development, as well as the SME development.  
4.373.   In terms of trade, Kenya exports to Ma laysia dropped significantly from USD  85.4 million 
in 2020 to USD  29.06  million in 2021, with the primary exports being tea, coffee, dates, figs, 
pineapples, and niobium. On the other hand, Kenya primarily imports palm oil, oil, machines, lamps, 
and furnit ure from Malaysia, with the total imports more than doubling from USD  536 million in 2020 
to USD  1.12 billion in 2021.The trade balance is therefore firmly in favour of Malaysia with a with a 
widening gap that Kenya hopes to bridge through export diversifi cation.  
4.374.   We look forward to a more fruitful trade relationship with Malaysia and we wish the 
delegation of Malaysia a successful Trade Policy Review.  
JORDAN  
4.375.   Let me to start at this difficult time by extended our deep condolences to people of Syria 
and Türki ye for the earthquake victims and expressing our stand with them.  
4.376.   We would like to join other delegations in welcoming H.E.  Mr Datuk  Isham  Ishak  the 
Secretary General of Ministry of International Trade and Industry and the entire Malaysian 
delegation, and to congratulate them for the efforts in preparing Malaysia's Trade Policy Review and 
Report.  
4.377.   Our appreciation is also extended to the discussant H.E.  Mr Alparslan Acarsoy for his 
insightful remarks, and the WTO Secretariat for the informative Report, which provides a 
comprehensive view of the main developments in the Malaysian trade regime for the period under 
review.  
4.378.   We congratulate Malaysia for the continuous improvement in its economy and trade 
performance in s pite of the different challenges that is due to pandemic and recent global economic 
crises, the economic and trade policy developments aim at integrating its economy into the global 
market, mainly under the multilateral trading system.  
4.379.   We commend Malaysia 's commitment towards its WTO obligations, and its constructive role 
in the efforts to strengthen the multilateral trading system.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  4.380.   Malaysia and Jordan enjoy good bilateral relations and growing economic ties, which hold 
promising opportunities ahead for bo th countries. The bilateral trade between Jordan and Malaysia 
amounted in 2021 around USD 280 million and we are looking forward to increase it in the future.  
4.381.   Jordan is always keen to expand our good economic relations with Malaysia and to explore 
further areas of mutual interest, on bilateral and multilateral levels.  
4.382.   Finally, we wish Malaysia all prosperity and a successful Trade Policy Review.  
NEPAL  
4.383.   We express deepest sympathy to the people of Türkiye  in this difficult time due to 
devastating earthquake.  
4.384.   My delegation warmly welcomes the Malaysian delegation led by H .E. Mr Datuk Isham Ishak, 
Secretary General, Ministry of International Trade and Industry of Malaysia and commends him for 
the insightful highlights of the eighth  Trade Policy Review of Malaysi a.   
4.385.   We thank H .E. Ambassador  Alparslan Acarsoy of Türkiye , discussant of the Review. My 
delegation thanks the Government of the Malaysia and the WTO Secretariat for the valuable Reports.  
4.386.   My delegation highly values Malaysia 's continued commitment and active participation in the 
multilateral trading system since becoming the Member of the WTO. We also commend its openness 
to international trade and its integration into the global economy.  
4.387.   We are pleased to take good note of average GDP growth of 1.6% and inflation rate increased 
marginally by 0.7% per  annum during the period of 2018 -2021. Furthermore, per  capita gross 
national income (GNI) of Malaysia increased to USD 11,066 in 2021 which shows how the economy 
of Malaysia is boosting in recent years. In addition to that, the continued trade surplus during the 
review period is highly commend able. 
4.388.    The Malaysian Government 's initiatives in reforming trade and investment regimes with a 
particular focus on Minimum Wage Policy, Ratification of the International Labour Organization (ILO) 
Protocol of 2014 and National Action Plan on Forced Labour 2 021-2025 remain praiseworthy. The 
strategic move taken through Strengthening Infrastructure and Connectivity, Digital Economy, and 
National Fourth Industrial Revolution Policy are commendable.  
4.389.   The smooth implementation of Eleventh Malaysia Plan along with  reform initiatives on 
reviewing of non -tariff measures, national policy on good regulatory practice and One Stop Centre 
for Business Travellers have understandably contributed towards simplifying regulations, increasing 
transparency and improving trade an d business climate.  
4.390.   At the bilateral front , Nepal and the Malaysia have been enjoying cordial relations ever since 
we established diplomatic relations in 1960.  
4.391.   Malaysia has recognized Nepal as one of the source countries for foreign workers since 2001. 
Nepal, as one of the largest source countries of foreign workers to Malaysia, has been largely 
contributing to boost up Malaysia 's economy fulfilling its human resource gap. Malaysia is in the 
preferences of Nepali youth due to favourable climatic, social , and cultural factors. My delegation 
would like to sincerely thank to the Malaysian Government for providing the job opportunities to the 
youths and remaining among top counties on sending the remittance.  
4.392.   The implementation of minimum wage policy would larg ely benefit migrant workers, my 
delegation highly commends for this policy and expects the adequate implementation of the policy. 
Furthermore, my delegation urges Malaysian Government for its full assurance in the implementation 
of the decent work, health and safety, and security of the migrant workers.  
4.393.   On merchandise trade front, Malaysia is an important trading partner of Nepal. Based on the 
primary data, Nepal has imported from Malaysia goods worth of NPR 16 billion in 2021 while it has 
exported to Mala ysia goods amounted to NPR 98 million in the same year.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  4.394.   Crude palm oil, petroleum bitumen, rubber gloves, laptop and notebook, copper scraps, 
finished palm oil are the major importing goods from Malaysia while Nepal is exporting uncooked 
pasta, bitten rice , musical instrument among others.  
4.395.   The trade data of goods shows a significant trade gap in Nepal 's bilateral trade with Malaysia. 
However, this can also be an opportunity for further collaboration and cooperation on reducing the 
gap by further exploring a nd exploiting trade, investment, and tourism potentials for mutual benefit.  
4.396.   We value the interests of Malaysian investors choosing Nepal as their investment destination, 
around 47  companies are investing in Nepal in manufacturing, agriculture, service sec tors and 
among others.  
4.397.   Air Connectivity is important for tourism promotion as well as business activities. Different 
airlines form both the countries have been providing the direct flights after the Air Service Agreement 
made between two Governments in 200 7. This facility has also contributed to establish 
people -to-people relations in the ground.  
4.398.   Finally, my delegation best wishes the Government of Malaysia to accomplish the target of 
achieving GNI per  capita MYR 57,882 in 2025.  
4.399.   Nepal looks forward to strengthening its relations with Malaysia in the days ahead. My 
delegation wishes a successful Trade Policy Review of Malaysia.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF MALAYSIA AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  
5.1.  I would like to begin this session by  thanking all distinguished Members for your active 
participation in Malaysia's eighth Trade Policy Review.  
5.2.  I wish to express my sincere appreciation to the discussant, H .E. Ambassador 
Alparslan  Acarsoy, for his insightful assessment on Malaysia's trade p olicies and investment regime, 
which helped to facilitate a very productive TPR session on Wednesday.  
5.3.  I am encouraged by the overwhelming positive feedback and support, as well as constructive 
views from Members. From the interventions by Members, we could  summari ze them into three 
broad themes:  
• First, constructive recommendations proposed by Members to further enhance Malaysia's 
involvement and contributions to the multilateral trading system;  
• Second, concerns on some of Malaysia's specific policies and m easures; and  
• Third, request for further clarifications on Malaysia's continuous efforts in promoting 
environmental sustainability.  
 
Malaysia's involvement in the multilateral trading system  
Multi-Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement (MPIA)  
5.4.  We appreciate the encouragement by some Members for Malaysia to consider joining the 
Multi-Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement (MPIA). Malaysia monitors closely the progress 
and deliverables of this alternative platform to resolve the disputes, and w e're currently undertaking 
domestic consultation process to review the proposal.  
5.5.  Notwithstanding this, it is Malaysia's priority to work closely with all Members to restore a fully 
functioning dispute settlement system as mandated by the Ministers at MC12.  
Accession to the Government Procurement Agreement  
5.6.  We welcome the encouragement by some Members for Malaysia to join the WTO Government 
Procurement Agreement (GPA). Malaysia has taken an important step to liberali ze government 
procurement market by ratifyi ng the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the 
Comprehensive and Progressive Trans -Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).  
5.7.  We hope to use the experience gained from the two regional FTAs to assess Malaysia's 
readiness to become a Member of the GPA . 
Joint Statement Initiative (JSI) on Services Domestic Regulation  
5.8.  Based on the comments that we received, I acknowledge the encouragement by Members for 
Malaysia to participate in the JSI on Services Domestic Regulation. Malaysia is undertaking domestic 
consultations to assess our readiness to participate in the Agreement. I would also take this 
opportunity to welcome any JSI Members who wish to share their experiences and knowledge in 
implementing the obligations of the Agreement with Malaysia.  
Fisheries  Subsidies Agreement  
5.9.  With regard to the ratification of the Fisheries Subsidies Agreement, work is underway for 
Malaysia to fulfil the domestic process for the ratification of this Agreement. We thank Members' 
support in Malaysia's efforts to ratify this Agreement in due course.  
Malaysia's position on the agriculture negotiations  
5.10.  Malaysia, like many other Members, are involved in the re -negotiations of the Agreement of 
Agriculture (AoA), and the various discussions with regard to the public stockholding for  food security 
purposes. These negotiations are fluid, and Malaysia is reviewing our positions based on the National 
Agrifood Policy on this matter, taking into account, not only the domestic needs for food security but 
also to the commitments in the AoA.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  Notifications compliance  
5.11.  We would like to thank Members' encouragement on the notifications that have been 
submitted by Malaysia, and would like to reiterate our strong commitment towards transparency. 
We wish to highlight that Malaysia has been providing notifications periodically. In response to 
Members' view, Malaysia would be putting in our best efforts in completing the outstanding 
notifications in a timely manner.  
Clarifications on Malaysia's policies and measures  
Standards and licensing requirements (including Halal and SPS)  
5.12.  Malaysia thanks Members' views with regard to the standards and licensing regime of 
Malaysia. Malaysia will continue to undertake measures to improve our licensing procedures and 
import measures in various sectors including the au tomotive sector.  
5.13.  As stated in the Government and Secretariat Reports, Malaysia has abolished the licensing 
requirements for agricultural products, except for rice. However, agricultural products with sanitary 
and phytosanitary risks are still required to obtain import permits and provide the relevant 
certificates for importation. These requirements are publicly available in the relevant Government 
websites. Malaysia would improve the accessibility of information with regard to licensing 
requirements, and w elcome Members to engage with Malaysian authorities to discuss any pending 
issues.  
5.14.  We also note some Members' request for clarification on the Halal certification to export meat 
products (except pork) to Malaysia. Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) is  the agency 
responsible for the sanitary and phytosanitary aspect of meat exports, while the Department of 
Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) is the agency responsible for the Halal certification. Malaysia 
would like to reiterate that it is our requireme nt that all imports of meat and meat products (except 
for pork and pork products) must be Halal -certified by JAKIM. As of 2022, JAKIM recogni zes 
83 foreign Halal certification bodies from 46  countries.  
Customs procedures  
5.15.  With regard to concern on border t rade, Malaysia has been actively engaging with Members 
on bilateral and multilateral fora to simplify and harmoni ze customs procedures to facilitate 
cross-border trade measures by leveraging on technology or digitalization, namely ASEAN Single 
Window (ASW)  and ASEAN Customs Transit System (ACTS), amongst others.  
5.16.  Malaysia will continue to support bilateral and multilateral efforts to modernize border 
management for cross -border trade facilitation and continued cooperation among the 
WTO Members.  
Intellectual property (IP)  
5.17.  Malaysia would like to thank Members' recognition of our continued efforts in updating 
IP legislation, to be in line with the international practices and legislations. Malaysia remains 
steadfast in reviewing more treaties in the future.  
5.18.  We wo uld like to take this opportunity to acknowledge WIPO, which has contributed to 
providing technical assistance to Malaysia. We have benefited from WIPO's programmes, especially 
in the areas of IP consultation and capacity building on IP administration, as well as enforcement.  
Enhancing bilateral cooperation  
5.19.  We welcome the interest expressed by some Members to further deepen trade and economic 
relations with Malaysia, as well as to advance cooperation in technical assistance. We are ready to 
engage with Members through various Joint Economic and Trade Committees and through the 
Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP).  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  Malaysia's continuous efforts to promote environmental sustainability  
Net-zero carbon emissions  
5.20.  In addition to the 2030  GHG emissions pledge I mentioned in my opening statement, Malaysia 
aspires to achieve net zero GHG emissions as early as 2050. Towards achieving these ambitions, 
Malaysia welcomes collaboration with developed countries in terms of sharing of policies and actio n 
plans on the implementation of NDCs and carbon neutrality. We look forward to working with other 
Members on capacity building cooperation in greenhouse gas inventory, and climate change 
adaption.  
Cooperation in Energy Transition  
5.21.  Malaysia is open to explo ring potential collaboration particularly in terms of expertise 
enhancement, knowledge sharing and capacity building towards transitioning our energy system and 
achieving our sustainable energy targets. We acknowledge that global cooperation is essential i n 
safeguarding our energy security and in facilitating international partnership to support Malaysia's 
energy transition aspirations.  
Conclusion  
5.22.  In conclusion, Malaysia views this TPR as a useful exercise and a productive platform to 
facilitate Malaysia's efforts to continuously improve in areas that have been highlighted by Members 
for the benefit of trade, investment , and environmental sustainability. We highly value all 
interventions and constructive feedback from Members.  
5.23.  On behalf of the Malaysian del egation, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all 
Members once again for your participation. I would also like to extend special thanks to the Chair, 
discussant, H .E. Ambassador Alparslan  Acarsoy , and the WTO Secretariat for making this TPR a 
success. 
DISCUSSANT  
5.24.  Let me start by thanking delegations for their great interest in eighth  Trade Policy Review of 
Malaysia. I believe that the discussion on the first day of the Review was an enriching one.  
5.25.  During that meeting, as mentioned earlier, a total  of 37 delegations took the floor, conveying 
their appreciation or praise to Malaysia for various aspects of its trade and economic outlook, seeking 
clarifications on some of its trade tools and policies, providing valuable comments and raising specific 
concerns in some areas.  
5.26.  I believe that those statements and questions by Members provide some concrete and useful 
insights that may be considered by Malaysian authorities.  
5.27.  In their interventions, Members congratulated Malaysia on its strong and resilient re covery 
from the impact of the pandemic. Its diversified economy, long -standing openness to international 
trade and industrial transformation efforts were praised.  
5.28.  Delegations also commended their existing good bilateral and regional trade relations with 
Malaysia and expressed appreciation for the active and constructive role that it plays in the WTO. 
Along with its important role in ASEAN, Malaysia 's participation to regional trade and economic 
initiatives such as APEC, RCEP , and CPTPP was applauded by Members.  
5.29.  Many Members spoke of the importance they attach to their trade agreements with Malaysia. 
They also congratulated the country on the full implementation of its TFA commitments and 
accession to various IP  related treaties. They encouraged Malaysia to  improve the implementation 
of its notification obligations under various WTO  Agreement s.  
5.30.  Several members sought clarification and raised concerns on its SPS measures, halal 
certification requirements, import licensing procedures and encouraged Malaysia t o have further 
streamlined and transparent processes. Some Members voiced concern about its trade remedy 
measures, foreign direct investment regulations, export subsidies, non -tariff measures, government 
linked companies and encouraged Malaysia to further liberalize some of its services sub -sectors.  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  5.31.  Some delegations expressed their hope that Malaysia will join Government Procurement 
Agreement, JSIs on services domestic regulation and trade and environment. There was some 
interest among members towards Malay sia's gender, sustainability , and labour policies.  
5.32.  I tried to briefly set out the most salient points in Members ' interventions during the first day 
of the Review and this by no means covers all matters expressed.  
5.33.  I would like to thank Malaysian delegation led by Mr Datuk  Isham  Ishak, Secretary General 
of Ministry of International Trade and Industry and his able team for their hard work during this 
review and  addressing today main points in Member 's statements. Secretary General Datuk  Isham 
explained in detail the steps that were taken and considered by Malaysia regarding specific areas.  
5.34.  Let me to express my appreciation for the opportunity to participate in t his exercise and 
congratulate Datuk  Isham and delegation of Malaysia as well as Ambassador  Syahril and his team 
on the successful completion of this review.  
5.35.  In concluding, I wish Malaysia all the best in its endeavours to reach the main objectives of 
the Twelfth Malaysia Plan which is resetting the economy, strengthening security, wellbeing and 
inclusivity and advancing sustainability. I believe these objectives sound very familiar for and are 
very relevant to many developing countries.  
5.36.  For a very long tim e, trade has been a powerful engine of growth for Malaysia. I am confident 
that this review will be instrumental to further cement Malaysia 's already strong commitment to the 
multilateral trading system which I believe will be critical in face of contempor ary challenges as well 
as relatively new and emerging trade issues.  
UNITED  STATES  
5.37.  We want to thank the Secretary General and Ambassador  Acarsoy for their remarks today.  
5.38.  We also wish to note our appreciation for the large delegation from Kuala  Lumpur here for 
the review, we recognize the immense work that goes into conducting a review and want to thank 
them for their efforts.  
5.39.  We are encouraged by the productive exchange during day one and appreciate the responses 
provided during this morning 's session.  
5.40.  I appreciate Malaysia raising the theme of its participation in the WTO in its remarks today. 
I had intended to focus my statement on exactly that point and I appreciate the open door.  
5.41.  Malaysia has a strong leadership track record in ASEAN, APEC , and other regional and 
multilateral fora. Malaysia has been a strong advocate and valuable partner here in the WTO as well. 
Our two delegations have worked closely on a wide range of issues and negotiations and we look 
forward continuing that cooperation.   
5.42.  Since we have the opportunity today to speak directly to capital -based officials, I would like 
to speak frankly and make some direct appeals to leadership in Kuala  Lumpur. Ministers recognized 
the need for WTO reform at MC12, but I can assure you that WT O reform cannot be left to Geneva 
based colleagues alone, we need your assistance. Malaysia is a very trade dependent economy, and 
despite the challenging external environment, Malaysia continues to record impressive economic 
growth. The WTO is sorely in n eed of strong voices from those that have benefited from the global 
expansion of trade. We hope that Malaysia can raise its voice in WTO committees, discussions , and 
negotiations.  
5.43.  Look forward to Malaysia 's active engagement in dispute settlement reform d iscussions, as 
you yourself noted this morning, Secretary General, it is up to all Members to engage with others 
and most importantly to listen to and be thoughtful about the needs of others when considering 
what a reformed dispute settlement system might look like.   WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  5.44.  We appreciate the responses we have received from Malaysia. We have found this review to 
be productive and beneficial. We look forward to continuing our strong relationship with Malaysia 
and congratulate Malaysia on a successful Trade Policy R eview.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
5.45.  Firstly, on behalf of the EU, I wish to thank the delegation of Malaysia for its statements and 
clarifications, as well as the replies supplied to most of our questions.  
5.46.  The exchanges on Wednesday and today illustrate the value of th e Trade Policy Review 
Mechanism in the WTO. A large and diverse number of WTO Members have made statements and 
asked questions to Malaysia. The EU appreciates that Malaysia has made a genuine effort to provide 
answers in the relatively short time available  and has thus contributed to increasing the transparency 
of its trade and investment policies. Many Members, including the EU, have recogni zed Malaysia 's 
important contribution to the WTO and its long -standing commitment to the work of the Organi zation 
as well as its support for the multilateral trading system.  
5.47.  The Secretariat 's Report and the statements and questions reveal a high level of consensus 
on some of the key concerns of WTO Members. These include a lack of transparency and 
predictability in regul ations, the use of non -automatic import licensing, restrictions in the services 
sectors (such as equity caps and discriminatory requirements), opportunities to compete in public 
procurement contracts in a non -discriminatory manner, and intellectual propert y enforcement.  
5.48.  The EU has also shared with Malaysia some additional follow -up questions that touch upon 
issues such as the implementation of intellectual property rights, public procurement, the 
implementation of the World Organisation for Animal Health st andards, food regulations, and 
personal data protection.  
5.49.  It is our hope that Malaysia will reflect on the comments made in this review with a view to 
creating a more open trade and investment environment to enhance its competitiveness and 
economic resilie nce. 
5.50.  The EU looks forward to our continued cooperation with Malaysia in the WTO and bilaterally, 
and we thank Malaysia for the constructive and open approach it has taken in this important 
transparency exercise.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
6.1.  The eighth Trade Policy Review of Malaysia has enabled us to deepen our understanding of 
developments in Malaysia's trade and related policies since the previous Review in 2018. The Review 
has benefit ed from the constructive and informative participation of th e delegation of Malaysia, led 
by H.E.  Mr Datuk Isham Ishak, Secretary General of Ministry of International Trade and Industry, 
the insightful remarks of our discussant H.E.  Ambassador Alpars lan Acarsoy , Permanent 
Representative of Türkiye to the WTO, and comments made and issues raised by the 37  delegations 
that took the floor during the meeting. I would also like to thank the delegations that submitted 
advance written questions.  
6.2.  Members commended Mala ysia for its resilient economic growth and long -term development 
trajectory. Following a year of negative economic growth in 2020 due to the COVID -19 pandemic, 
the Malaysian economy returned to its strong growth trajectory of the pre -COVID -19 period in 202 1. 
Members expressed appreciation for the wide -ranging reforms adopted by Malaysia in different policy 
areas. These include in particular the Eleventh Malaysia Plan (2016 -2020) and the Twelfth Malaysia 
Plan (2021 -2025), which aim at resetting the economy, strengthening security, improving wellbeing 
and inclusivity as well as advancing sustainability. Other important policy reforms adopted by 
Malaysia and mentioned by several Members pertain to the digital economy, investment, and labour 
reform. Attention wa s also drawn to the significant role of small and medium -sized enterprises in 
the Malaysian economy and to Malaysia's success in developing a diversified manufacturing sector. 
Members stressed the critical role of trade in Malaysia' economy, as evidenced b y the very high ratio 
of trade to GDP.  
6.3.  Members appreciated Malaysia's commitment to the rules -based multilateral trading system. 
Malaysia has fully implemented the Agreement on Trade Facilitation since June  2021. Its active 
participation in the Joint Stat ement Initiatives (JSI) in E -commerce, Investment Facilitation for 
Development, and MSMEs was highlighted. Members welcomed Malaysia's support for the 
Declaration on Trade and Women's Economic Empowerment, and its chairmanship of the Committee 
of Participa nts on the Expansion of Trade in Information Technology Products, and the Working 
Groups on Trade and Transfer of Technology and Trade, Debt and Finance. Malaysia's role as a 
co-sponsor of the proposed TRIPS waiver to allow the equitable access to vaccine,  therapeutics, and 
diagnostics for the COVID -19 pandemic was also noted.   
6.4.  Members encouraged Malaysia to: participate in the JSI on Services Domestic Regulation, the 
work of the Trade and Environmental Sustainability Structured Discussions (TESSD), and mo ve 
forward to ratify the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies. Some Members invited Malaysia to join the 
Multi-Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement (MPIA). Many Members urged Malaysia to submit 
outstanding notifications. Some Members expressed their co ncern about the discrimination that 
foreign suppliers face when trying to access to the public procurement market, and encouraged 
Malaysia to join the WTO  Agreement  on Government Procurement.  
6.5.  Malaysia has concluded free trade agreements with 16  countries, including 9 ASEAN countries, 
and the FTA coverage ratio in its total trade amounted to 67.3% in 2022. Some Members 
congratulated Malaysia on the entry into force of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership 
(RCEP) Agreement, and the Comprehensive and  Progressive Agreement for Trans -Pacific Partnership 
(CPTPP). Some welcomed Malaysia's participation in the Indo -Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF).  
6.6.  Members were encouraged by Malaysia's continued efforts to streamline its fully automated 
customs procedure s through its National Single Window. They appreciated that almost all of 
Malaysia's tariff lines carry ad valorem  rates, more than half of the tariff lines are duty -free on an 
MFN basis, and around 80% of tariff lines are bound. The simple average applied  tariff rate fell 
from 7.5% in 2017 to 7.1% in 2022. However, Members also noted that Malaysia still applies 
non-ad valorem  duties for 119  tariff lines, and tariff escalation remains. Malaysia was urged to 
convert the non -ad valorem  rates to ad valorem  ones, and reduce its tariff escalation. Malaysia was 
encouraged to review and reduce non-tariff measures such as non -automatic import licensing, and 
to consider liberalizing its rice importation system that is currently monopolized. Some Members 
were impresse d that Malaysia had reviewed over 400  non-tariff measures, and were interested in 
learning more about the outcomes of the review. While appreciating Malaysia's aim to become a hub 
for halal products, some Members sought clarity regarding sanitary and halal  certification 
requirements.  Some Members applauded Malaysia's recent accession to the Madrid Protocol, the WT/TPR/W/ 223 
 
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  Marrakesh VIP Treaty, and the Budapest Treaty, and encouraged it to continue review its legislation 
to ensure a robust IPR system.  
6.7.  In the area of in vestment, Members highlighted the considerable development towards a more 
business and trade -friendly environment, through the setting up of the one -stop centre for business 
registration and licensing in 2020, and the approval of the National Investment Aspirations Policy 
in 2021. Members also noted that in addition to foreign equity caps in a number of services sectors, 
Malaysia has a set of discriminatory domestic policies that negatively affect FDI. They encouraged 
Malaysia to continue to im prove its business climate and further liberalize foreign investment 
restrictions, including in the areas of telecommunications, tourism, and financial services.  
6.8.  At the sectoral level, Members recognized Malaysia's various policies and initiatives to 
accelerate technology adoption with the aim of increasing efficiency and productivity in agriculture, 
manufacturing, and services activities for Malaysia's economy and trade. In agriculture, Malaysia 
was welcomed in its active role in advancing agricultural tra de reform as a member of the Cairns 
Group. On the energy sector, several Members commended Malaysia's efforts to support a 
low-carbon economy and its ambitious plan to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. However, 
Malaysia continues to provide subsid ies to the energy sector. Some suggested Malaysia to implement 
a subsidy rationalization programme. Members also expressed their concerns on the Approved 
Permit (AP) policy in the automotive sector.  
6.9.  Other areas of interest to Members include: Malaysia's l ack of predictability and transparency 
in business licensing; rationale for the import prohibition of certain products; government -linked 
companies; industrial policy; policies on the operation of foreign companies; export subsidies and 
local content; alig nment of domestic standards with international ones; requirement to obtain 
international circulation permit on cross -border road transport; regulatory discretionary powers in 
the services sector, including financial services; and Islamic finance.  
6.10.  Many Memb ers stressed the importance of their bilateral trade and economic relationship with 
Malaysia. In this regard, they pointed to ongoing or recently finalized negotiations on trade and/or 
investment agreements, and identified specific sectors or policy areas in which they saw potential 
for further development of their relationship with Malaysia.  
6.11.  Malaysia has received about 342  written questions, out of which 155 questions were 
submitted within the established deadline. Prior to this meeting Malaysia provided written answers 
to all questions submitted within the established deadline. Regarding all other outstanding and 
follow -up questions, Malaysia is expected to provide its responses within one month, when this 
review will conclude.  
 
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