MATRADE pushes export growth as trade surplus extends to 75 months
MATRADE says Malaysia's trade hit RM2.16 trillion in the first seven months of 2026, with exports up 29.2% and the surplus reaching RM170.5 billion.
Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) reported that total trade reached RM2.16 trillion in the first seven months of 2026, marking a 24.7% year-on-year rise. Exports climbed 29.2% to RM1.165 trillion, pushing the trade surplus to RM170.50 billion and extending a 75-month streak of monthly surpluses. The electrical and electronics sector drove most of the growth, contributing RM563.65 billion, or 48.4% of total exports, fueled by global demand for semiconductors, AI infrastructure and data centres.
Major destinations including ASEAN, the United States, China, the European Union and Taiwan all recorded significant increases. MATRADE highlighted the success of its Export Acceleration Mission to Cambodia, which secured RM186 million in sales against a RM100 million KPI, and added Jacob Lee Chor Kok to its board to strengthen public-private collaboration for MSMEs. Upcoming initiatives include the Malaysia-China Gateway Initiative and preparations for the Malaysia International Halal Showcase in September.
