Kuala lumpur: Bilateral trade between Malaysia and Japan experienced a significant rise of 11.8 percent, reaching US$23.3 billion in the first seven months of 2026 compared to the same period last year, announced Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani. Japan continues to be a vital trading and investment partner for Malaysia, bolstered by long-standing economic cooperation between the two nations.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Johari highlighted that these investments have introduced technology and management expertise, enhanced domestic supply chains, provided opportunities for local businesses, and integrated Malaysia into global manufacturing networks. He shared these insights during his keynote address at the 43rd MAJECA-JAMECA Joint Conference. MAJECA refers to the Malaysia-Japan Economic Association, while JAMECA stands for the Japan-Malaysia Economic Association.

Johari expressed Malaysia's intention to further invigorate and deepen economic collaboration with Japan. He emphasized the aim to restore and exceed the ambition, intensity, and confidence that previously characterized Malaysia-Japan relations. However, he noted that the approach would involve adapting past models to suit future opportunities.

The minister pointed out the strong complementarity between Malaysia's and Japan's economic priorities, with both nations concentrating on economy, food and energy security, and the resilience of critical supply chains. He suggested that Japan could explore emerging opportunities in ASEAN and Malaysia's energy transition by supporting renewable energy expansion, new energy technologies, and future-ready infrastructure.

Furthermore, Johari expressed the desire for local companies to develop their technological capabilities, enabling Malaysian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to supply not only multinational companies operating in Malaysia but also global supply chains. He acknowledged Japan's capabilities in assisting Malaysia's transition into more advanced segments of the semiconductor value chain.