Malaysia trade rises 22.4 per cent in 1H 2026
The Ministry of Finance called for more diverse trading links and stronger domestic supply chains to limit exposure to external disruptions.
Malaysia recorded RM1.795 trillion in total trade during 1H 2026, up 22.4 per cent, according to the Ministry of Finance (MoF). Despite the growth, the ministry said the country needed to widen its trading links and reinforce supply chains against future external shocks.
In its Economic Outlook 2027 report, issued on Oct 9, MoF said sourcing imports from more markets could ease immediate supply shortages and make supply chains more adaptable. It also urged Malaysia to pursue higher-value activities within global production networks.
The ministry attributed trade growth partly to stronger exchanges with major partners. Trade with China increased 30.6 per cent, while growth was 25.7 per cent with the United States, 34.7 per cent with Taiwan, 21.5 per cent with Singapore and 45.8 per cent with Hong Kong.
MoF said the government was stepping up efforts to integrate Malaysia into higher-value supply chains through technology and domestic innovation. It is also seeking high-growth high-value (HGHV) investments, greater economic complexity, more skilled jobs and stronger local supply networks.
The ministry cited the National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS) and New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030 among policies supporting these goals. It said the policies emphasise stronger local manufacturing, technological innovation and greater domestic involvement in higher-value activities, especially advanced electronics and semiconductors.
