Malaysia reached an unprecedented economic peak in 2025 as total trade breached the MYR 3 trillion (USD 770.51 billion) threshold for the first time. This landmark achievement was fueled by record-breaking exports which climbed 6.5% to MYR 1.607 trillion (USD 411.74 billion). This marks the fifth consecutive year that exports have remained above the MYR 1 trillion mark.
Imports also reached an all-time high of MYR 1.455 trillion (USD 372.79 billion) resulting in a significant trade surplus of MYR 151.80 billion (USD 38.89 billion). This performance represents the nation’s 28th straight year of trade surplus since 1998. The manufacturing sector continued to serve as the primary engine of growth. Electrical and electronic (E&E) products remained dominant by accounting for 43.9% of total export value. Success was underpinned by high-value shipments to traditional partners like the United States, ASEAN, and the European Union. Furthermore, Malaysia successfully diversified its reach by pivoting toward emerging markets such as Uzbekistan, Nigeria, and Mexico. Experts attribute this historic success to political stability and proactive market penetration despite global geopolitical tensions.
Agriculture also contributed significantly to the economic surge. Palm oil exports rose by 9.2% to reach MYR 124.86 billion (USD 31.99 billion). Supported by the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP 2030), Malaysia’s global standing improved as the nation climbed to 23rd place in the 2025 World Competitiveness Ranking. This jump signals a powerful recovery and reinforces Malaysia’s integration into high-tech global supply chains.
(Sources: New Straits Times; The Edge Malaysia)
