Malaysia’s exports surge 31.2% to RM1.36 trillion in first eight months

Malaysia's exports experienced a significant surge of 31.2% in the first eight months of 2026, reaching RM1.356 trillion, up from RM1.033 trillion in the same period last year. This growth was fueled by improved diversification across markets and products, as reported by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE).

The expansion to 40 countries, including the United States, France, and Ireland, marked the first time exports to these nations surpassed their full-year 2025 values, showcasing Malaysia's reach beyond traditional markets. Emerging markets propelled this growth, with Namibia leading at an impressive 430.6% increase, followed by Angola (215.4%), Ethiopia (51.2%), Tanzania (50.2%), and Bangladesh (20.2%).

The rise in exports to BRICS member countries, up 19.1% to RM251.47 billion, was largely driven by notable growth in China (23.7%), India (23.4%), Brazil (27.5%), and South Africa (43.4%). Notably, exports to Ethiopia already surpassed the full-year 2025 value, indicating a strong presence in non-traditional markets. MATRADE's export growth was widespread across various industries, with notable increases in optical and scientific equipment (37.6%), petroleum products (26.6%), metal manufactures (21.6%), machinery, appliances, and parts (18.4%), and liquefied natural gas (17.2%).

Growth was also seen in palm oil-based products, with oleochemical exports rising 12.6%. MATRADE's CEO, Datuk Indera Abu Bakar Yusof, highlighted the success of diversification efforts, attributing the growth to the strategic shift in recent years. He emphasized the resilience of Malaysian exporters, including micro, small, and medium enterprises, and the agency's commitment to expanding market access through enhanced capacity-building programs and partnerships with private stakeholders.

The Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS), set to take place from September 23 to 26 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre in Kuala Lumpur, will further bolster export promotion efforts.