Airbus–Malaysia Deal Boosts France–Asia Trade: Macron

French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed a new agreement between Airbus and Malaysia Airlines during a joint statement with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Paris. Macron called the deal “historic,” emphasizing its strategic significance for both nations and its broader implications for France–Asia trade relations.

"I am thinking of the projects signed in the critical minerals sector, in the rare earths sector with the company Carester, which has just opened a factory in the Lacq region; the transport sector with this historic cooperation between Malaysia Airlines and Airbus; and in the energy transition sector," Macron said.

The announcement follows reports that Airbus is nearing a substantial aircraft order from Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), the parent company of Malaysia Airlines. Industry sources told Reuters that the order is expected to include new A330neo long-haul aircraft, though specific figures and terms have yet to be disclosed.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim noted that both Malaysia Airlines and low-cost carrier AirAsia are proceeding with Airbus acquisitions. “Airbus has been our focus—Malaysia Airlines is acquiring 20 aircraft, and AirAsia another 50,” Ibrahim said.

The deal comes amid a shifting global trade environment, with Europe bracing for potentially higher US tariffs under President Donald Trump’s administration. Macron presented the Airbus–Malaysia agreement as a signal of deepening trade ties between Europe and Asia at a time of increasing uncertainty in global commerce.