MALAYSIA’S total trade grew by 4.8 per cent year-on-year to RM1.46 trillion in the first half of 2025, supported by resilient export and import performance, the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) said in a statement today.
Exports increased by 3.8 per cent to RM760.2 billion, while imports climbed by 5.9 per cent to RM704.67 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of RM55.53 billion for the period.
MITI acknowledged a slight decline in June trade activity, with total trade falling by 1.2 per cent year-on-year to RM234.85 billion. Exports contracted by 3.5 per cent to RM121.72 billion, while imports rose 1.2 per cent to RM113.13 billion.
Nevertheless, the monthly trade surplus rebounded to RM8.59 billion in June, up from RM759.9 million in May. This marked the 62nd consecutive month of surplus since May 2020, which MITI said reflected the “continued resilience in Malaysia’s external trade position”.
The ministry attributed the drop in June exports primarily to a decrease in shipments of manufactured and mining goods, including petroleum products, liquified natural gas, and crude oil.
“This contraction was partly cushioned by continued strength in exports of palm oil and palm oil-based agricultural products, which posted double-digit growth in June 2025, extending its growth streak to the 15th consecutive month,” MITI said.
Exports of machinery, equipment, and parts, along with electrical and electronics (E\&E) products, also showed improvement. The ministry noted that the E\&E sector’s performance was in line with World Semiconductor Trade Statistics’ projection of an 11.2 per cent increase in global semiconductor sales this year.
In terms of export destinations, Malaysia recorded growth in shipments to the United States, European Union, and Taiwan, with exports to Mexico also rising, particularly due to increased demand for E\&E products.
Addressing recent tariff developments, MITI reiterated Malaysia’s openness to dialogue:
“As for the United States’ tariff measures, Malaysia remains committed to continuing engagement to achieve a balanced and mutually beneficial bilateral trade arrangement,” the ministry said.
MITI added that, together with the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), it is working to strengthen trade resilience by expanding market access and reinforcing partnerships through Free Trade Agreements. - July 18, 2025
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