KUALA LUMPUR, July 18 — Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz today said Malaysia would stand to gain if Donald Trump wins a second presidential term, as he could renew the trade war he previously launched against China.
The minister said Malaysia and others such as Singapore and Vietnam would benefit if firms operating in China relocate to escape increased US tariffs that Trump has pledged to impose if he were to regain power.
“For Malaysia and the region, it must be acknowledged that there has been a benefit, especially for Malaysia, Vietnam, and Singapore.
“This is because our country is perceived as neutral, resulting in an increase in market demand for products originating from our side,” he told reporters after announcing his ministry’s report card today.
Tengku Zafrul said that even under President Joe Biden, tariffs on Chinese semiconductors have already been ramping.
Trump and Biden the main contenders for the US presidential election in November this year.