KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 19 — Malaysia achieved a landmark trade performance in 2025 with total trade (merchandise) breaching the RM3 trillion milestone for the first time in history, said the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE).
MATRADE said in a statement today that the momentum was solidified by the services sector, which recorded its first trade surplus after 13 years of deficit since 2011, signaling the country’s successful transition into a high-value, services-driven economy.
“The RM1.15 billion trade surplus signals a significant turnaround, propelled by robust performance in travel and manufacturing services.
“This recovery anchored a record-breaking year for the nation’s economy, with total services trade surpassing the RM500 billion mark for the first time in history to reach an all-time high of RM543.01 billion, a 9.2 per cent increase from 2024,” it said.
The agency said exports recorded a historic high of RM272.08 billion, expanding by 12 per cent to outpace imports which grew by 6.4 per cent to RM270.93 billion and resulting in an overall trade surplus of RM1.15 billion.
MATRADE chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican said achieving the first services surplus in 14 years underscores the success of the country’s strategic shift toward a high-value, knowledge-based economy.
“With total trade reaching a record RM543.01 billion, we remain committed to sustaining this momentum by enhancing our export promotion initiatives across both major and emerging markets, in line with our diversification strategies to ensure sustainable growth for Malaysian exporters,” he said.
Meanwhile, MATRADE chief executive officer Abu Bakar Yusof said the exceptional performance of the services sector in 2025 also reflects the impact of targeted export initiatives through showcasing the local capabilities in iconic international expositions such as the International Paris Airshow (aviation and aerospace), ADIPEC (energy ecosystem including upstream/downstream oil and gas, liquefied natural gas, petrochemicals, and renewable energy), SEMICON Southeast Asia & SEMICON West (semiconductor and related industries) and International Healthcare Week Malaysia (healthcare services).
“All these major services related trade events align with high value sectors as stipulated in the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) to ensure the services sector continues to serve as a key engine of national prosperity," he added.
Looking forward, he said the agency remains dedicated to empowering Malaysian service providers including micro, small and medium enterprises to scale globally under its 2026 roadmap.
“MATRADE will continue to champion Malaysian export excellence on the world stage by deepening its integration into global supply chains, fostering innovation and high-value partnerships that will drive long-term prosperity and solidify Malaysia’s standing as a premier global trade hub,” the agency said.
