Malaysia’s external trade reached a record high in the first half of 2026, with total trade climbing 22.4% year-on-year to RM1.796 trillion, driven by robust exports of electrical and electronic (E&E) products and resilient demand from key global markets despite geopolitical uncertainties.
The Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) said exports rose 27.5% to RM971.59 billion, while imports increased 16.9% to RM824.44 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of RM147.15 billion.
Trade, exports, imports and the trade surplus all recorded their highest levels ever for the January-to-June period, reflecting Malaysia’s continued integration into regional and global supply chains.
MITI said the strong export performance was led by manufactured goods, particularly E&E products, with export value rising by almost RM140 billion compared with the same period last year. The growth was supported by sustained global demand, rapid technological advancement and the continued adoption of digital technologies across major economies.
Other manufactured exports contributing to the expansion included petroleum products, optical and scientific equipment, as well as manufactures of metal.
Mining exports also strengthened during the period, supported by higher shipments of metalliferous ores, metal scrap and liquefied natural gas (LNG).
Malaysia’s export growth was underpinned by stronger demand from major trading partners, including ASEAN, China, the United States, Taiwan and the European Union, all of which recorded notable increases in imports from Malaysia.
Exports to Free Trade Agreement (FTA) partners also expanded significantly, with higher shipments to Hong Kong, South Korea, Mexico, India, Australia, the United Kingdom, Japan, Pakistan, Canada and New Zealand.
The ministry said the momentum accelerated further in June, when Malaysia recorded its highest monthly trade value on record.
Total trade in June surged 44.7% year-on-year to RM340.89 billion, supported by double-digit growth in both exports and imports.
Exports jumped 45.4% to RM177.89 billion, while imports rose 43.9% to RM163 billion, generating a trade surplus of RM14.89 billion.
The latest surplus also marked Malaysia’s 74th consecutive month of trade surplus since May 2020, underscoring the country’s sustained external sector resilience.
MITI said Malaysia’s stronger trade performance has also been reflected in its improved global competitiveness.
