KUALA LUMPUR: Negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA) between Malaysia and the European Union (EU) are nearly 80 per cent complete, with both sides targeting to conclude the deal by June 2027, Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani said.

He said the remaining 20 per cent involves outstanding issues, including palm oil and the automotive sector, which require further agreement between the two sides.

Johari expressed confidence that the differences could be resolved, paving the way for the Malaysia-EU Free Trade Agreement (MEUFTA) to be signed by the end of June next year.

"Basically, I can say that almost 80 per cent has been completed and agreed upon by both parties. Only 20 per cent remains, involving several matters concerning the EU and Malaysia.