Malaysia and New Zealand Set Ambitious Goals for Trade and Peace

Malaysia and New Zealand aim to boost bilateral trade by 50% by 2030, revising their free trade agreement. They plan to eliminate non-tariff barriers and increase customs cooperation. They also called for a Gaza ceasefire, emphasizing a two-state solution. Differences on Hamas exist, yet both seek peace.

Malaysia and New Zealand announced plans on Monday to elevate bilateral trade by 50% by 2030 and to reconsider their existing free trade pact.

During a joint press conference, New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Luxon, alongside Malaysian counterpart Anwar Ibrahim, affirmed that both nations would remove non-tariff barriers hindering goods exchange. Luxon highlighted efforts in e-certification and enhanced customs collaboration to ease border transactions.

The trade ministers from both countries will convene next year to review the Malaysia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement. Additionally, New Zealand plans to expand defense ties with Malaysia, deploying a P-8A Poseidon aircraft to Penang for joint exercises.

In a call for peace, Anwar and Luxon urged an immediate Gaza ceasefire and a two-state resolution between Israel and Palestine. They acknowledged differences over Hamas but are committed to a peaceful solution. Anwar noted the lack of significant international efforts, particularly from the U.S., to halt the conflict.