Malaysia’s trade rises 27% to RM2.514 trillion in January-August 2026
Export measures include 283 promotion programmes, a push into non-traditional markets and financing support for smaller businesses.
Malaysia recorded RM2.514 trillion in total trade during January-August 2026, a 27% increase, the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (Miti) said. Both exports and imports contributed to the growth despite tariff changes, restrictions on international trade and disruption along major shipping routes.
In a parliamentary written response to Chong Zhemin (PH-Kampar), Miti outlined measures to support exporters, broaden their markets and assist smaller businesses. Chong had asked how the ministry was helping exporters respond to tariff revisions and trade restrictions.
The Export Coordination Committee, chaired by the Chief Secretary to the Government, has approved 283 programmes for export promotion in 2026 across ministries and agencies. Its objectives include reaching RM2.09 trillion in national exports by 2030, a target under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) and the National Trade Blueprint.
Miti identified Africa, West Asia, Central Asia and Latin America as priority non-traditional markets. The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) will expand its offices’ role in connecting businesses, providing information about importing countries’ requirements and helping companies tailor marketing strategies to local conditions.
Combined trade with those regions rose 18.5% to RM59.16 billion during January-August 2026, according to Miti. Export growth included 430.6% for Namibia, 215.4% for Angola, 51.2% for Ethiopia, 50.2% for Tanzania and 27.5% for Brazil.
For micro, small and medium enterprises, support includes Malaysia Global Connect (MGC) Go Export Cover. The programme provides a 30% incentive towards takaful contributions and offers protection of up to RM250,000 against political and commercial export risks.
Miti also said the Export Leap Scheme offers Islamic financing with an annual profit rate subsidised at 1%, for financing tenures of up to seven years.
