Malaysia’s second participation at the Korea Import Expo 2026 ended with outstanding results whereby the three-day showcase saw the delegation secure export prospects of RM160 million well exceeding the initial target of RM120 million.
The Malaysia Pavilion, coordinated by MATRADE, served as the primary commercial hub for 17 high-potential Malaysian companies, including 10 under Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA)’s Gate to Global programme.
Malaysia, recorded the largest national participation among ASEAN countries at KIE 2026, ahead of regional peers such as Singapore, the Philippines, Myanmar, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Capitalising on South Korea’s appetite for premium and lifestyle alternatives, these companies successfully captured buyers’ attention with a diverse product range. Strong interest centred on premium halal-certified ready-to-eat and frozen foods, snacks, confectionery, sauces, condiments, detergents, and household goods.
Abu Bakar Yusof, Chief Executive Officer of MATRADE said, “The exceptional trade leads secured at KIE 2026 underscore the strong appeal of Malaysian products in the South Korean market, reaffirming the ability of our exporters to meet the high standards of Korean consumers. South Korea’s private domestic consumption expenditure, forecasted at nearly USD924.1 billion in 2026, is a testament that the market offers promising opportunities for Malaysian products”.
This successful campaign stems from the MoU signed between MATRADE and the Korea Importers Association (KOIMA) on 1 December 2024, during the Official Visit of Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim to South Korea.
