KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s total jewellery trade grew 10 per cent to RM12.13 billion in the first half of 2026 (1H 2026), sustaining the industry’s strong momentum following a record performance last year.
Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) deputy chief executive officer (Export Acceleration) S. Jai Shankar said the continued growth reflected the strength of the country’s jewellery industry and growing global confidence in Malaysia’s trade capabilities.
"In 2025, Malaysia’s total jewellery trade surged 22.5 per cent to an unprecedented RM22.46 billion, driven by strong growth across both exports and imports,” he said in his speech at the launch of the inaugural Malaysia Gold Festival (MGF) 2026 here, today.
He said jewellery exports rose 9.3 per cent to RM10.1 billion in 2025, with personal ornaments accounting for 85.5 per cent of total exports, reflecting strong international confidence in Malaysian craftsmanship and quality.
Imports soared 35.8 per cent to RM12.3 billion, signalling vibrant domestic consumer demand and Malaysia’s increasingly important role within global retail supply networks, he added.
Jai Shankar said the United Arab Emirates (UAE) was Malaysia’s largest jewellery export market last year, with exports valued at RM3.4 billion, accounting for 33.9 per cent of total exports.
This was followed by Singapore at RM3.1 billion or 30.2 per cent, Thailand at RM1.1 billion (10.7 per cent), Australia RM0.7 billion (6.8 per cent), and Hong Kong at RM0.6 billion (6.2 per cent).
He said the performance was a testament to the grit of Malaysian manufacturers, the strategic agility of traders and growing international confidence in the country’s trade capabilities.
On the industry’s strengths, Jai Shankar said Malaysia has a world-class jewellery sector supported by a strong ecosystem of artisans, manufacturers and micro-financing partners.
"The industry, powered by the 916 gold standard, is anchored in Penang and the Klang Valley, which together account for more than 80 per cent of Malaysia’s gold jewellery production.
"Malaysia’s jewellery industry also combines traditional craftsmanship with modern manufacturing technologies, including 3D engraving, while incorporating Malay heritage, Chinese symbolism, Indian motifs and modern minimalist designs,” he said.
He noted that Malaysia has built a strong legacy as a global jewellery exporter and remains a leading player within ASEAN, with the industry continuing to embrace intelligent manufacturing while preserving its traditional craftsmanship.
The MGF 2026 is the country’s first large-scale industry-led gold festival and exhibition, organised by the Malaysia Gold Association.
It is co-organised by the Malaysia Indian Goldsmith Jewellers Association, Persatuan Pajak Gadai Islam Malaysia and Province Wellesley Gold and Silver Ornament Merchants Association, bringing together stakeholders across the gold and precious metals ecosystem under one integrated platform.
MGF 2026, held from Sept 18 to 20, 2026 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, features exhibitions, business networking, industry forums, educational programmes, cultural showcases, and public engagement activities. - Bernama
