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Malaysia’s trade hits record RM3.1 trillion in 2025, with exports beating forecast

This coincides with country’s economy also expanding faster last year than previously projected

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Tan Ai Leng

Tan Ai Leng

Published Tue, Jan 20, 2026 · 05:41 PM
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    • The country’s economy grew by 4.9% in 2025, according to advance government estimates. This is higher than earlier official projections of between 4 and 4.8%.
    • The country’s economy grew by 4.9% in 2025, according to advance government estimates. This is higher than earlier official projections of between 4 and 4.8%. PHOTO: EPA

    [KUALA LUMPUR] Malaysia’s trade hit a record high at the end of 2025, as a surge in electronics exports pushed total commerce past RM3 trillion (S$949 billion) for the first time and capped a year of stronger-than-expected economic growth.

    Total trade in December expanded by 11.1 per cent year on year to RM286.6 billion, supported by double-digit growth in both exports and imports, according to data released on Tuesday (Jan 20) by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry.

    The out-turn comfortably beat market expectations and marked a sharp acceleration from November’s softer performance.

    MalaysiaMalaysia economyBank Negara MalaysiaInterest ratesAseanAsean BusinessAsia-Pacific

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