Kuala lumpur: Malaysia’s trade performance held steady, registering a 4.8 percent increase to RM1.46 trillion in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, as reported by the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (MITI).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, MITI revealed that exports climbed by 3.8 percent to RM760.2 billion, while imports saw a 5.9 percent rise to RM704.67 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of RM55.53 billion. Despite these gains, trade performance in June 2025 experienced a slight 1.2 percent decline to RM234.85 billion compared to June 2024. Exports decreased by 3.5 percent to RM121.72 billion, whereas imports increased by 1.2 percent to RM113.13 billion.

MITI noted a rebound in the trade surplus to RM8.59 billion in June from RM759.9 million in May, marking the 62nd consecutive month of surplus since May 2020. The ministry attributed the drop in exports in June to reduced shipments of manufactured and mining goods, particularly petroleum products, liquefied natural gas, and crude petroleum. This decline was partly offset by robust exports of palm oil and palm oil-based agricultural products, which continued their growth streak for the 15th consecutive month. Additionally, exports of machinery, equipment, and electrical and electronics (E and E) products also contributed positively.

The growth in E and E exports aligns with the World Semiconductor Trade Statistics projection of an 11.2 percent increase in global semiconductor sales for 2025. Exports to major trading partners, including the United States, the European Union, and Taiwan, showed positive growth in June 2025. Malaysia’s trade with the United States, representing 11.6 percent of the country’s total trade, grew by 10.8 percent year-on-year to RM27.32 billion, with exports rising by 4.7 percent to RM16.28 billion and imports increasing by 21.1 percent to RM11.05 billion. Exports to Mexico also rose, driven by higher shipments of E and E products. Regarding the United States’ tariff measures, Malaysia remains focused on achieving a balanced and mutually beneficial bilateral trade arrangement.

Meanwhile, ASEAN accounted for 24.8 percent of Malaysia’s total trade in June 2025, although trade with the region dropped 10.5 percent year-on-year to RM58.21 billion. MITI, alongside the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation, is intensifying efforts to create a more resilient trade ecosystem by diversifying export markets and strengthening trade ties through Free Trade Agreements.