China raises serious concerns over some parts of Malaysia-US trade deal

China expressed serious concerns regarding certain content of the "Agreement on Reciprocal Trade" between Malaysia and the United States, and called for Malaysia to act in its own long-term interests by weighing the matters carefully and seeking a proper resolution, the Ministry of Commerce said on Thursday. 

China welcomes Malaysia's efforts to resolve differences with other countries through the signing of trade agreements, a spokesperson for the ministry said.

"However, any such agreement should not negatively impact global trade development and regional cooperation, nor should it harm China's interests," the spokesperson added. 

On Tuesday, officials from China's Ministry of Commerce and Malaysia's Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry held bilateral consultations in Beijing regarding issues related to the Malaysia-US reciprocal trade agreement, according to the spokesperson.

The Malaysian side provided explanations and clarifications on each of the concerns raised by China, and stated that Malaysia values the long-term partnership with China and remains committed to deepening bilateral economic and trade cooperation, the spokesperson said.