Malaysia achieves record RM364.74bil trade in July

Malaysia experienced a record high of RM364.74 billion in trade during July, marking a 37.3% increase year-on-year, according to the investment, trade and industry ministry (Miti). Exports surged by 38% to RM193.6 billion, while imports rose 36.4% to RM171.14 billion, resulting in a RM22.46 billion trade surplus. This achievement marked the 75th consecutive month of trade surplus for Malaysia since May 2020.

The growth in exports was driven by gains across manufacturing, agriculture, and mining sectors. Electrical and electronic (E&E) products led the export surge, reaching the highest monthly value, up by RM32 billion compared to July 2025. This growth was attributed to strong demand for semiconductors and other high-value E&E products. July also saw increased exports of metalliferous ores, metal scrap, and palm oil, which further boosted overall growth.

Trade with China accounted for 18.2% of total trade, followed by the US at 12.7% and Taiwan at 8.2%. Asean accounted for 26.8% of Malaysia's trade, while the EU contributed 7%. These economies collectively made up 72.8% of Malaysia's total trade in July.

In 2026, total trade surpassed the RM2 trillion mark, two months ahead of the previous year's pace. By July, trade had reached RM2.16 trillion, with exports exceeding the RM1 trillion mark earlier than in 2025. The trade surplus stood at RM170.5 billion, more than double the surplus from the same period last year. The sustained strength in cumulative performance highlights the continued momentum in Malaysia's trade growth during the first seven months of the year.