EU-Malaysia Chamber of Commerce and Industry e-Bulletin
23rd of April 2008
EUMCCI attended a session for exchange of views with the new Minister of International Trade and Industry, Y.B. Tan Sri Hj. Muhyiddin Mohd Yassin on 15th April. The Minister communicated his aim to enhance the competitiveness of Malaysia, reduce the red tape and ease the cost of doing business in Malaysia. He re-affirmed the pro-business approach of MITI ensuring the same policies will remain in place. He also intends to establish working relations with all State Governments. He intends to make the trade missions abroad more focused, so that right sectors are been addressed. The key focus will also be on how the Malaysian SMEs can play a bigger role and get an easier access to financial support. He commented on trade policy, wishing for Doha Round to end by the end of the year and informing that Malaysia will be more proactive in terms of Free Trade Agreement negotiations.
EUMCCI expressed the wish for a strengthened enforcement of IPR and a more consultative approach towards industry when new regulations are implemented. The Minister welcomed the proposal and expressed a wish to organise consultation workshops with chambers and industries.