THE Government is intensifying efforts to diversify its trading partners and reinforce supply chain resilience in the face of rising global protectionism, according to the Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) Minister Liew Chin Tong with particular emphasis on ensuring small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are not sidelined by major trade agreements.
Responding to a parliamentary question from Bukit Bendera MP Syerleena Abdul Rashid, Liew said the rapidly evolving global trade environment has necessitated a multifaceted strategy to protect Malaysia’s economic competitiveness and sustainability.
To that end, Malaysia continues to leverage existing free trade agreements, notably the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), while also expanding its trade reach.
Two new FTAs were signed this year: with the United Arab Emirates on 1 October and with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) – comprising Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland – on 23 June.
“Through RCEP, Malaysia is well-positioned to attract high-quality investment that links ASEAN production ecosystems to global markets,” Liew said, citing key sectors such as electrical and electronics, automotive, halal products, and the digital economy.
MITI also highlighted the specific provisions within RCEP and CPTPP designed to support SMEs. These include capacity-building initiatives, information-sharing, and improved market access.
The ministry is collaborating with agencies such as MATRADE and MIDA to implement training programmes, export mentoring, and cross-border e-commerce platforms tailored for SMEs.
“In ensuring that SMEs are not left behind, MITI has intensified outreach and awareness efforts to equip businesses with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the opportunities and requirements of major trade agreements,” the ministry added.
These efforts include guidance on export procedures, technical standards, and regulatory compliance.
Looking ahead, MITI’s broader resilience strategy is anchored in the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030), which promotes diversification, digitalisation, robust infrastructure, and stronger bilateral and multilateral cooperation. - October 13, 2025
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