New free trade agreement expected to clear way for Proton, Perodua in U.S.

With American buyers just beginning to wrap their heads around inexpensive Chinese cars coming to market, a new free trade agreement between Malaysia and the U.S. promises to add a few unfamiliar names to the likes of 'Geely' and 'Brilliance.' The pending FTA (expected to be approved next year) could double two-way trade between the U.S. and Malaysia by 2010, paving the way for auto companies like Perodua and Proton to find access to U.S. roads.

The agreement should likewise engender access to Malaysia’s marketplace for America’s domestic automakers.

(Pictured: 2006 Perodua Kenari)

[Source: The Associated Press via Forbes]