Malaysia Commits to Second Phase Purchase of 30 Additional Boeing Aircraft Worth US$9.5 Billion
Kuala Lumpur, The Gulf Observer: Malaysia has reaffirmed its commitment to acquiring an additional 30 Boeing aircraft as part of the second phase of a strategic procurement agreement with the United States, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz announced on Thursday.
Speaking at a special press conference following the U.S. government’s announcement to reduce tariffs on Malaysian exports from 25 percent to 19 percent, the minister highlighted the aircraft purchase as a key component of reciprocal negotiations between both countries aimed at addressing the bilateral trade deficit.
“To help address the trade imbalance with the United States, the Malaysian government will undertake major procurements, including the purchase of Boeing aircraft,” Tengku Zafrul said. “Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) has committed to purchasing 30 Boeing aircraft valued at US$9.5 billion under the first phase, and an additional 30 Boeing aircraft valued at another US$9.5 billion under the second phase.”
The minister emphasized that these purchases are part of Malaysia’s broader strategy to enhance trade cooperation with the U.S. while strengthening the nation’s aviation capabilities.
Previously, MAG had confirmed the acquisition of 30 Boeing jets—including 18 Boeing 737-8s and 12 Boeing 737-10s—powered by CFM LEAP-1B engines, with an option to purchase an additional 30 aircraft. This move aligns with MAG’s ongoing aircraft modernization initiative to reinforce Malaysia’s role as a competitive player in the global aviation industry.
The Boeing deals are part of a wider set of multilateral negotiations involving several countries, including Japan, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Bangladesh, which collectively contributed to the reduction of U.S. tariffs on selected imports.
This development underscores Malaysia’s proactive approach to trade diplomacy and industrial transformation through high-impact investments and international collaboration.
