KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 27, 2026 — Malaysia’s total trade value rose to RM272.4 billion in January 2026, driven by higher exports and robust external demand, according to official data released by the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) on Thursday.
Exports increased to RM146.9 billion in January, continuing a trend of positive trade performance at the start of the year. The growth was supported largely by strong shipments of electrical and electronic (E&E) products, which remain the backbone of Malaysia’s export engine. High-value manufactured goods such as machinery, optical and scientific instruments also contributed to the overall export boost.
On the import side, Malaysia recorded RM125.5 billion, reflecting solid domestic demand for intermediate goods and capital equipment used in production processes across key sectors.
The trade balance remained in surplus at RM21.37 billion, marking continued external sector strength amid global economic headwinds.
States That Led Exports
Among states, Penang once again took the lead as Malaysia’s top exporter, with E&E and related products forming the bulk of outbound shipments. Other states such as Selangor, Johor and Kedah also recorded notable export figures, reflecting broad-based contributions across major industrial hubs.
Penang’s export performance continues to underscore the state’s pivotal role in Malaysia’s manufacturing and export ecosystem, particularly in technology-driven sectors.
Major Trading Partners
Malaysia’s exports to major partners such as China, the United States, Taiwan, and the European Union showed strong double-digit growth, while demand from ASEAN markets remained steady. Exports to several Free Trade Agreement (FTA) partners, including Hong Kong, Korea, Mexico, India, the United Kingdom, the UAE and New Zealand, also rose significantly.
Analysts noted that exports to Taiwan and Hong Kong reached all-time highs in January, highlighting sustained international interest in Malaysian industrial output.
Economic Significance and Outlook
Economists say the January trade figures reflect Malaysia’s resilience in navigating external economic shifts, with diversified export markets and a strong manufacturing base cushioning the impact of global uncertainties.
“The positive start to the year indicates that Malaysian exporters are successfully tapping into global demand, particularly for technology and manufactured goods,” said a trade analyst. “However, continued vigilance is necessary as global market volatility — including trade policy shifts and currency movements — could influence performance in the coming months.”
Malaysia’s trade surplus — sustained for 69 consecutive months since May 2020 — provides ongoing support for the country’s external accounts and healthier economic fundamentals.
DOSM’s Release
The Department of Statistics Malaysia emphasised that the preliminary January figures reflect both global demand dynamics and Malaysia’s competitive manufacturing profile. DOSM will continue to monitor monthly trade developments as new data becomes available.
Overall, Malaysia’s trade data for January 2026 points to continued export strength and broad-based external demand — reinforcing the importance of trade as a pillar of the nation’s economic growth strategy.
