KUALA LUMPUR, May 28, 2025 — Malaysia recorded its highest-ever monthly trade value in March 2025, totaling RM249.9 billion, as announced by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI). This marks the 15th consecutive month of year-on-year trade growth.
Exports surged 6.8% YoY to RM137.3 billion, while imports declined 2.8% to RM112.6 billion. The resulting trade surplus reached RM24.7 billion, the highest since June 2023.
🔧 What’s Driving the Surge?
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Electrical & electronics (E&E): Export value exceeds RM12 billion over the previous year, led by semiconductor and component demand.
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Agricultural engines: Strong overseas demand for palm oil and related products also played a key role in the export gains.
📊 Quarterly Performance Snapshot
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Q1 2025 trade exceeded RM715.7 billion (+3.6% YoY)
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Exports reached RM378.4 billion (+4.4%)
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Imports stood at RM337.4 billion (+2.8%)
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Quarterly surplus expanded 20.1% to RM41 billion — all sustained by export-driven momentum.
🇺🇸 Regional Trends & Outlook
Exports to major economies—ASEAN, US, EU, and Taiwan—rose significantly, with U.S. exports soaring to record highs. Allied countries—including Hong Kong, Turkey, Canada, and Chile—also contributed to the growth surge.
However, MITI cautions that global trade uncertainties, such as demographic shifts and consumer demand, may temper growth in the upcoming months.
Bank Negara Malaysia has reaffirmed its 2025 GDP forecast in the 4.5–5.5% range, partly based on this strong export data.
📌 What Businesses Should Know
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Manufacturers & SMEs in E&E and agro-commodities continue to enjoy robust international demand.
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Trade agencies will likely intensify support efforts to navigate emerging geopolitical trade challenges.
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Strategic focus on diversification may buffer against future export headwinds.
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