LIMA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s maiden official visit to Peru has generated potential exports worth RM1.24 billion (US$0.3 billion), particularly in high potential sectors on the initiative of the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE). Anwar said the Peruvian companies expressed interest in importing Malaysia’s steel and glass construction materials, medical equipment and products, palm oil, chemicals, and food and beverage products.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar stated that logistics cooperation, especially in port-related matters, is crucial to facilitate exports between the two countries. This was mentioned during the exit press conference with the Malaysian media covering the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Week (AELW). Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, held a meeting with 22 captains of industry and business leaders from 17 Peruvian companies representing several industries, including pharmaceuticals, medical equipment a
nd products, building materials, chemical-based products, health foods, and consumer goods.
So far, the companies have imported goods from Malaysia worth RM435.27 million (US$95.44 million), with the government aiming to increase the value of Malaysian exports to Peru. In terms of investment, the Malaysian Investment Development Authority has identified seven leading Peruvian manufacturing companies interested in exploring investment opportunities in Malaysia, particularly in the food processing, integrated logistics services, and pharmaceutical sectors.
Anwar mentioned that follow-up actions will be undertaken to realize these intentions promptly. The Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) noted the participation of 16 private companies and government-linked companies from Malaysia in the Prime Minister’s official visit. Anwar stated that they also attended a roundtable meeting with Peruvian industry leaders to explore various business collaboration opportunities, thereby strengthening trade rel
ations and expanding bilateral investments between Malaysia and Peru.
On the sidelines of APEC-related meetings, Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Aziz conducted bilateral meetings with economy ministers from Singapore, Japan, and New Zealand. Discussions with Singapore’s Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations, Grace Fu, focused on preparations for the Singapore-Malaysia Annual Leaders’ Retreat scheduled for Dec 8-9, 2024, as well as Malaysia’s preparations and priorities for the ASEAN chairmanship in 2025.
With Japan’s Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Muto Yoji, discussions included Malaysia’s preparations for the World Expo 2025 in Osaka as a platform to strengthen economic cooperation between Malaysia and Japan. The discussion also involved Malaysia’s priorities in the energy and green sectors, which are among Japan’s focus areas. Tengku Zafrul mentioned that the meeting with New Zealand Trade Minister Todd McClay centered on regional and bilateral free trade agreements,
the current geopolitical situation, and mutual recognition of halal certification.