Malaysia’s cross-border e-commerce push is gaining traction, with the eTRADE 2.0 programme helping Malaysian micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) generate RM438.7 million in actual export sales and penetrate 163 international markets.
Implemented by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) during the 12th Malaysia Plan (2021-2025), the programme benefited more than 2,000 MSMEs through grants, training, technical guidance and capacity-building support.
The findings were revealed in an impact assessment of eTRADE 2.0 conducted by UKM Pakarunding Sdn Bhd, which surveyed programme beneficiaries, interviewed stakeholders and analysed key performance indicators including export sales, new market penetration, cross-border e-commerce adoption and companies’ digital readiness.
The programme’s beneficiaries successfully entered 163 export markets, including less commonly explored destinations such as Réunion Island, Kiribati and Nauru.
ASEAN remained a key destination, with around 30% of beneficiary companies strengthening their presence in the regional market.
Among the best-performing product categories were ready-to-eat food, beverages, pharmaceutical and cosmetic products, household goods and plastics.
The impact study also found that at least 852 new products were listed on international e-commerce platforms, expanding the global visibility of Malaysian products.
