Accra:Malaysia is setting its sights on the African market as a new destination for expanding its commodity exports, with Kenya poised to serve as the primary gateway. This initiative is being spearheaded by the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities as part of a strategic trade mission.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Malaysia's Minister of Plantation and Commodities, Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad, outlined that this effort is aimed at bolstering Malaysia's commodity export markets. The strategy includes maintaining strong ties with major markets such as India, China, and the European Union (EU).

The ministry is also concentrating on increasing demand in India and expanding the market for high-value downstream products to enhance the value and competitiveness of Malaysian commodities. India, Kenya, the EU, and China are identified as the four main commodity markets.

At a press conference following the inauguration of the 2026 Agricultural Industry Carnival (AGX'26) at Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Jeli Campus, Noraini commented on current market developments. She noted that the crisis in West Asia has yet to impact Malaysia's plantation sector, and feedback from a ministry delegation recently returned from India indicates strong demand for Malaysian palm oil.

Noraini emphasized the importance of engagement sessions with industry players and smallholders to address market developments and sector challenges. She highlighted that expanding export markets and developing high-value downstream products are crucial for maintaining the competitiveness of Malaysian commodities internationally.