KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's trade grew 22.4% year-on-year to a record RM1.796 trillion in the first half of 2026, driven by strong export performance despite ongoing geopolitical uncertainties, logistics disruptions and uneven global demand.
In a statement today, the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) said exports increased 27.5% to RM971.59bil, while imports rose 16.9% to RM824.44bil, resulting in a trade surplus of RM147.15bil.
“Trade, exports, imports and trade surplus registered their highest values ever recorded for the January to June period, supported by Malaysia’s deep integration into regional and global supply chains,” MITI said.
Manufactured goods continued to underpin export growth, led by electrical and electronic (E&E) products, which recorded an increase of almost RM140bil in export value.
The ministry attributed the growth to sustained global demand, technological advancements and the continued adoption of digital technologies across major markets.
Other manufactured exports that contributed to growth included petroleum products, optical and scientific equipment, and manufactures of metal.
Mining goods also contributed positively, particularly metalliferous ores and metal scrap as well as liquefied natural gas (LNG).
“From a market perspective, export growth was underpinned by robust demand from major trading partners, namely Asean, China, US, Taiwan and the European Union, all of which recorded remarkable growth,” Miti said.
Exports to Free Trade Agreement (FTA) partners also expanded, with higher shipments to markets such as Hong Kong SAR, South Korea, Mexico, India, Australia, the United Kingdom, Japan, Pakistan, Canada and New Zealand.
In June alone, Malaysia recorded its highest monthly trade value on record, with total trade rising 44.7% year-on-year to RM340.89bil.
Exports for the month increased 45.4% to RM177.89bil, while imports grew 43.9% to RM163bil, resulting in a trade surplus of RM14.89bil, the 74th consecutive month of surplus since May 2020.
MITI said Malaysia's stronger trade performance was reflected in its improved position in the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking 2026, where the country climbed eight places to 15th, supported by improvements in economic performance, government efficiency and business efficiency.
“Based on the strong performance in 1H 2026, several key export products and markets are poised to achieve new record highs for the full year, driven by continued strength in E&E products and robust demand from major trading partners.
“Going forward, continued efforts to leverage existing FTAs, diversify export destinations and strengthen higher value-added export will be crucial in sustaining momentum and reinforcing Malaysia’s trade resilience,” Miti said.
