Brussels: Europe and the Arabs Today, Europe and Malaysia take an important step forward together. On the occasion of Prime Minister Anwar bin Ibrahim’s visit to Europe, I am pleased to announce the relaunch of negotiations on the EU-Malaysia Free Trade Agreement. This is what was stated in a statement issued in Brussels this morning by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who added: “This excellent news comes at a critical time. Geopolitical tensions are rising, and the risk of instability is increasing. While some are turning inwards towards isolation and fragmentation, Europe and Malaysia are choosing a different path: to engage, build partnerships and create new opportunities for our people.
Europe and Malaysia are committed to a rules-based international order, economic openness, sustainable development and regional stability. Europe remains committed to promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific, where both sides share significant interests and responsibilities.
As our third largest trading partner in ASEAN and the current Chair, Malaysia plays a pivotal role in shaping the direction of the bloc. Today’s announcement confirms Europe’s commitment to strengthening ties with Malaysia and ASEAN as a whole.
The EU-Malaysia Free Trade Agreement will take our trade relations to the next level. With our trade already worth €45 billion annually, we will unlock even greater benefits for businesses and consumers, especially for industrial products. Free and fair trade means better choices and prices. It also means less risk, as integrating and diversifying supply chains strengthens our economic security.

Like all free trade agreements in Europe, this is not just about economic exchanges. We will aim to build our partnership on strong commitments to workers’ rights, climate protection and the environment. Once concluded, this agreement will provide a platform for dialogue on issues that the EU cares deeply about, including respect for human rights. We are showing that sustainability and free trade can and must go hand in hand.

“Now that we have resumed these negotiations, I have full confidence in our teams to deliver an agreement we can all be proud of. Let’s get to work,” Von der Leyen concluded.