KUALA LUMPUR, July 9 -- Malaysia still has time to negotiate with the United States before a newly announced 25 per cent tariff takes effect on August 1, said Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz.

The minister said the while yesterday's announcement was a surprise, the August 1 implementation meant Malaysia could effectively continue negotiating with the US for a fair solution.

"This gives us time," Tengku Zafrul said. "The initial 90 days (pause) ended yesterday, so we act in good faith. We want a fair and comprehensive agreement for Malaysia."

Prior to the announcement yesterday, the US had imposed a 24-per cent tariff on Malaysian goods except those in exempt sectors.

Speaking at a press c...