Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia’s trade recorded the 13th successive month of year-on-year growth in January 2025, rising 3.1% to RM241.95 billion compared to January 2024, said the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) today. The ministry reported that exports grew for the fourth consecutive month, increasing by 0.3% to RM122.79 billion, while imports rose by 6.2% to RM119.16 billion. This resulted in a trade surplus of RM3.63 billion, marking the 57th successive month of surplus since May 2020.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, MITI highlighted that export performance in January 2025 was driven by growth in key sectors, particularly manufacturing and agriculture. The month saw significant performance in electrical and electronic (E and E) exports, which increased by almost RM7 billion. Additionally, other products like palm oil and palm oil-based agricultural products, as well as machinery, equipment, and parts, recorded export growth.

In the realm of international markets, MITI noted that exports to the United States and Taiwan saw significant double-digit growth in January 2025. This increase was largely due to rising demand for E and E products, particularly semiconductor devices and integrated circuits. Building on Malaysia’s economic growth in 2024, MITI emphasized the ministry and MATRADE’s commitment to accelerating export growth by strengthening ties with key trade partners, exploring new markets, and providing the necessary support for Malaysian exporters to ensure resilience and sustainable long-term success.