Malaysia recorded a historic trade surplus of RM132.77 billion in the first five months of 2026 (5M26), driven by robust export growth that significantly outpaced imports amid strong demand for technology and energy-related products.
According to the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), total trade expanded 18.3% year-on-year to RM1.455 trillion between January and May, with exports surging 24.3% to RM793.84 billion, while imports rose 11.8% to RM661.07 billion. The resulting surplus was nearly three times higher than the RM46.93 billion recorded in the corresponding period last year.
Commenting on the result, MATRADE Chief Executive Officer Abu Bakar Yusof said the strong performance was underpinned by a global artificial intelligence (AI) boom and elevated energy demand, which boosted shipments of semiconductors, petroleum products and liquefied natural gas (LNG).
“Electrical and electronics exports rose 39.7% to RM382.89 billion, led by a 61.6% jump in semiconductor exports linked to AI infrastructure development worldwide.
“Exports of petroleum products and LNG also increased, supported by firmer energy prices amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East,” Abu Bakar shared.
Abu Bakar said Malaysia’s move into higher-value industries was also gaining traction, with exports of automotive components, electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles more than doubling during the period.
He added that Malaysia’s rise to 15th place in the 2026 IMD World Competitiveness Ranking from 23rd a year earlier reflected improvements in economic performance, government efficiency, business competitiveness and infrastructure, strengthening the country’s position in global supply chains.
Beyond traditional destinations, Abu Bakar highlighted that Malaysia continued to diversify its export footprint, recording strong growth in emerging markets across Latin America, Central Asia, Africa, Oceania, and Central and Eastern Europe.
“Countries such as Mexico, Brazil, Uzbekistan, Hungary and Croatia registered notable increases in imports from Malaysia, while frontier markets including Sudan, Liberia and Congo also posted strong growth,” he said.
Looking ahead, he said MATRADE will continue monitoring developments in the Middle East and work with exporters through its global network of trade offices and Trade Resilience Task Force to help mitigate supply chain disruptions and sustain export momentum.
