Southeast Asia's third-richest country posts record $384B exports in 9 months
Malaysia's exports surged 34% year-on-year to a record RM1.57 trillion (US$384.4 billion) in the first nine months of 2026, driven by electrical and electronic shipments.
Malaysia, the third-richest country in Southeast Asia by nominal GDP per capita, has reported record exports totaling $384 billion over the past nine months, according to VnExpress Business. Imports rose by 25.7% to RM1.34 trillion, bringing total trade to RM2.91 trillion, up 30.1%, with the country posting a trade surplus of RM232.38 billion.
Electrical and electronic products, including those related to artificial intelligence and digital technology, were a key driver of export growth, with their export value increasing by RM253.88 billion. Other major contributors included petroleum products, optical and scientific equipment, machinery, and liquefied natural gas. The resilience of Malaysian exporters and SMEs, particularly in areas like automotive parts, pharmaceuticals, and aerospace products, was highlighted by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) Director-General Indera Abu Bakar Yusof.
Exports to non-traditional markets in Africa, Central Asia, South Asia, and Latin America also grew, with a notable increase in exports to Namibia, South Africa, Libya, Angola, and Brazil.
Brief written by urgent.news from VnExpress Business's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
