Malaysia's Trade Surges to Record RM2.16 Trillion in Seven Months

Malaysia's trade volume reached an unprecedented RM2.16 trillion in the first seven months of this year, marking a significant 24.7% increase compared to the same period last year. This surge propelled trade past the RM2 trillion mark two months earlier than in 2025, underscoring a robust economic momentum.

Exports played a crucial role, climbing 29.2% to RM1.165 trillion, while imports saw a 19.8% rise to RM994.71 billion. The nation's trade surplus also more than doubled to RM170.50 billion. The Malaysian External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) highlighted that trade, exports, imports, and trade surplus all achieved their highest cumulative values for January to July.

Matrade attributed this strong performance to sustainable growth momentum, but cautioned that a prudent approach and adaptability are necessary to navigate the evolving global trade landscape. Despite ongoing global trade uncertainties, the healthy trade activity significantly contributed to Malaysia's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth of 6.0% in the second quarter of 2026, bolstered by resilient domestic spending and robust export growth.

In July alone, Malaysian trade expanded by 37.3% year-on-year to RM364.74 billion. Exports increased by 38% to RM193.60 billion, with imports up 36.4% to RM171.14 billion. The country recorded a trade surplus of RM22.46 billion, extending a streak of monthly surpluses to 75 consecutive months since May 2020. This sustained surplus highlights the nation's consistent trade balance.

The export growth was broadly supported by key sectors including manufactured goods, agricultural produce, and mineral products. The electrical and electronics (E&E) sector remained the primary export driver, with a monthly value increase of RM32 billion compared to July 2025, fueled by strong demand for semiconductors and high-value E&E items. Exports of metal ores, scrap metal, and palm oil products also contributed positively. Furthermore, Malaysia's export diversification benefited from positive demand across major markets, with double-digit growth recorded in ASEAN, China, the United States, Taiwan, and the European Union.