Malaysia Records Historic Trade Performance in 2025, Strengthens Global, US and Halal Trade Partnerships

Malaysia achieved a historic, record-high trade performance in 2025, with total trade surpassing RM3 trillion (USD 715.95 billion), representing a 6.3% year-on-year increase. Exports rose 6.5% to RM1.61 trillion (USD 375.77 billion), marking the fifth consecutive year Malaysia’s exports exceeded the RM1 trillion threshold. This strong performance resulted in a trade surplus of RM151.8 billion (USD 35.58 billion), underscoring the resilience and competitiveness of Malaysian exporters in the global market.

Bilateral trade between Malaysia and the United States also recorded robust growth for the second consecutive year, expanding 13.0% to RM367.47 billion (USD 85.88 billion) and accounting for 12.0% of Malaysia’s total trade. Exports to the US reached a new record high, rising 17.2% to RM233.08 billion (USD 54.54 billion), driven by strong demand for electronics and electrical (E&E) products, machinery, equipment and parts, processed foods, and metal products. Meanwhile, US imports of Malaysian goods increased 6.4% to RM134.39 billion (USD31.34 billion), led by E&a items as well as machinery and transport equipment.

In 2025, Malaysia’s halal trade sector continued to play a strategic role in the nation’s export growth, reinforcing the country’s position as a global halal hub. Supported by the internationally recognised JAKIM halal certification system, Malaysia remains a trusted source of halal-certified products and services across key segments including processed foods, ingredients, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and halal-compliant logistics. Growing global demand—particularly from developed markets seeking high-quality, traceable, and ethically produced goods—has opened up numerous partnership opportunities within the segments of Halal trade ecosystem. Malaysian Halal products are increasingly positioned not only for Muslim consumers but also for the wider market that values quality assurance, food safety and sustainability.

To further strengthen international sourcing and trade linkages, MATRADE will organise the MIHAS 2026 International Sourcing Programme (INSP) in conjunction with the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) 2026. MIHAS 2026 is scheduled from 23–26 September 2026 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, a premier venue for global trade events that draws international stakeholders from across the halal ecosystem.

The MIHAS 2026 International Sourcing Programme will bring together qualified international buyers and innovative Malaysian exporters across a broad range of sectors including halal food and beverages, ingredients, personal care, pharmaceuticals, lifestyle products, and halal-compliant services. The programme is designed to facilitate targeted business matching sessions, strategic sourcing meetings, and partnership development to unlock new trade opportunities and high-impact commercial outcomes for participants in the global halal economy.

MATRADE remains committed to delivering tangible outcomes and fostering strong partnerships between Malaysian exporters and US businesses to drive sustainable growth in the bilateral relationship, including collaboration in high-value sectors such as advanced manufacturing, halal products, and sustainable industries.

For US businesses seeking opportunities with Malaysian exporters, including participation in the MIHAS 2026 International Sourcing Programme, please contact MATRADE Los Angeles at [email protected] to explore programmes and partnership opportunities.