Cambodia and Malaysia have signed reciprocal trade agreements with the United States, granting American companies access to critical minerals, on the first day of President Donald Trump’s tour of Asia — a trip where economic relations will take center stage.
The White House released details of the new agreements, which will open both countries’ markets to U.S. investments in critical minerals. Cambodia’s deal also extends cooperation in energy, telecommunications, transport, and infrastructure.
According to the agreements, Cambodia has pledged fair treatment for American investors, protection of digital trade, and strong labor and environmental standards. The Malaysia deal addresses America’s trade deficit with the country, adjusting tariffs and non-tariff barriers to promote collaboration in industry, technology, and services.
During a bilateral meeting between President Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer described critical minerals as “vital to global manufacturing and technology sectors.”
“We live in a world where having access to these critical minerals is essential for our production, our technology, and our economy. It’s crucial that we work together as trusted partners to ensure smooth and secure supply chains — for the quality of life of our people and the security of our economies,” Greer said.
Critical minerals, especially rare earth metals, have become a major focus in Trump’s trade dispute with China.
China currently controls over 90% of global refined rare earth production, prompting the U.S. to diversify access and reduce Beijing’s dominance over critical mineral supply chains.
