Malaysia’s jewellery trade keeps sparkling, hits RM12.13b in 1H 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, August 18 — The total jewellery trade in Malaysia expanded by 10% in the first half of 2026 (1H 2026), reaching RM12.13 billion and maintaining the industry's robust growth trajectory following a record-breaking year last year. According to S. Jai Shankar, deputy chief executive officer (Export Acceleration) of Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade), this sustained development underscores the strength of the nation's jewellery industry and the increasing global trust in Malaysia's trading abilities.

In 2025, Malaysia's total jewellery trade surged by 22.5% to an all-time high of RM22.46 billion, fueled by robust growth in both exports and imports, Shankar stated during the inauguration of the inaugural Malaysia Gold Festival 2026. The export sector witnessed a 9.3% increase, reaching RM10.1 billion, with personal ornaments constituting 85.5% of the total exports, highlighting the high international confidence in Malaysian craftsmanship and quality.

Imports, on the other hand, jumped by an impressive 35.8% to RM12.3 billion, indicating a vibrant domestic consumer demand and Malaysia's growing significance in global retail supply chains.