Malaysia-European Free Trade Association partnership agreement could negatively impact many sectors, says CAP
The Star - 13 June 2025
Malaysia-European Free Trade Association partnership agreement could negatively impact many sectors, says CAP
By Khoo Gek San
The proposed Malaysia-European Free Trade Association (Efta) Economic Partnership Agreement (Meepa) could have far-reaching consequences for public health, access to seeds, and farmers’ rights, says the Consumers Association of Penang (CAP).
Health policy advisor Dr Lim Chee Han stated that the leaked intellectual property (IP) annexe of the deal contains “TRIPS-plus” provisions—rules that exceed the requirements under the World Trade Organisation’s Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS).
These provisions, he explained, could lead to extended patent monopolies, restrict the government’s ability to introduce affordable generic medicines, and increase the cost of essential drugs.
“Agreeing to TRIPS-plus measures ties the hands of our government. It restricts our ability to respond to public health needs and will drive up the cost of medicines, affecting access for patients who need life-saving treatment,” he said during the press conference on Friday (June 13).
Lim also warned that the agreement would impact the country’s food security and farmers’ livelihoods.
“The provisions would undermine existing protections in our national laws that allow farmers to save, reuse, exchange, and sell their seeds. This threatens our local farming practices and long-term food sovereignty,” he said.
He emphasised that Malaysia, as a net importer of intellectual property, stands to lose more than it gains.
“Efta countries, including Switzerland and Norway, represent a small market compared to Malaysia. Yet we are being asked to give up a lot, especially when the total population of Efta is less than half of ours,” he added.
Lim urged the government not to rush into signing the deal and called for transparency in the negotiation process.
“The full text of Meepa must be released for public consultation and parliamentary scrutiny. We must retain our right to regulate in the public interest, especially in areas as vital as health and agriculture,” he said.
Additionally, the group has submitted the memorandum to the Prime Minister’s Department, the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry, the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry, and the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry.
