Anwar highlighted that Malaysia’s export sales totaled RM45.4 billion, driven by trade relations with countries including the United Kingdom, Thailand, Russia, Italy, France, Brazil, China, South Korea, Ethiopia, Kenya, South Africa, and others.
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia achieved its highest-ever trade performance in 2025, with total trade reaching RM3.061 trillion, marking an increase of 6.3 percent compared to 2024, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced today.
Responding to a question from Petaling Jaya MP Lee Chean Chung, in Dewan Rakyat today, Anwar highlighted that Malaysia’s export sales totaled RM45.4 billion, driven by trade relations with countries including the United Kingdom, Thailand, Russia, Italy, France, Brazil, China, South Korea, Ethiopia, Kenya, South Africa, and others.“Exports were primarily concentrated in liquefied natural gas (LNG), palm oil, electrical and electronic (E&E) products—especially semiconductors—, aerospace products, furniture, and other goods,” he said.
Anwar noted that Malaysia successfully navigated global economic challenges, including measures imposed by the United States and international political tensions. He attributed the record trade performance to Malaysia’s open trade policy, which now reaches 240 markets worldwide.
In addition, Malaysia recorded its highest export value in history, totaling RM1.63 trillion, a 6.5 percent increase from 2024, covering major markets such as ASEAN, China, the United States, and the European Union.The country also recorded a trade surplus of RM151.8 billion, up 9.2 percent from the previous year, reflecting strong external demand.
Highlighting the potential of emerging markets, the Prime Minister pointed to significant growth in countries such as Kyrgyzstan (225.8% increase), Yemen, Tanzania, Togo, Uzbekistan, Angola, Algeria, Nigeria, Puerto Rico, Kenya, and Morocco. “These new markets present opportunities to expand trade in a more open and inclusive manner,” he said.
During the session, Lee also raised concerns from investors regarding high costs and bureaucratic obstacles from utility providers such as TNB and IWK, including charges on substation projects and contributions based on investment value.
In response, Anwar assured that the government will review these costs to ensure they are reasonable and that utility providers act as facilitators rather than obstacles to foreign investment.
“While our trade performance is encouraging, we must remain open to reducing service costs where necessary. This matter will receive special attention from the relevant ministry,” he said.
