From 7 to 11 April 2025, the 8th Round of Malaysia-Korea Free Trade Agreement Negotiations (MKFTA8) was held at the Lotte Hotel in Seoul, Republic of Korea (ROK). Malaysia was represented by Ms. Sumathi Balakrishnan, Senior Director of Strategic Negotiations at the Ministry of International Trade and Industry, who was appointed as the Chief Negotiator for Malaysia in MKFTA8. A total of 14 ministries and agencies participated in the negotiations, addressing various sectors including goods, services, investment, and economic cooperation, which are central to the agreement's objectives.
The negotiations have been characterised by an atmosphere of cooperation, with both Malaysia and the ROK demonstrating mutual understanding and respect for each other's sensitivities and limitations across various sectors. This collaborative spirit is crucial for tackling potential challenges that may arise during the negotiations, allowing for more effective dialogue on key issues.
