Trade Performance : May 2026 and January - May 2026

Resilient Performance Propels Trade to Its Fastest Growth in 44 Months, Exports and Trade Surplus Reach New Monthly Record Highs

Malaysia’s export momentum strengthened in May 2026, supported by sustained expansion across major products and markets, with exports reaching a new monthly record high. Total trade grew by 29.8% year-on-year (y-o-y) to RM327.63 billion, registering its fastest growth in 44 months. Exports extended their upward trajectory for the 11th consecutive month, surging 45.3% to a new all-time high of RM184.00 billion, surpassing the previous record set in April 2026. This also marked the fastest export growth since August 2022. Imports, meanwhile, expanded at a more moderate pace of 14.1% to RM143.62 billion. Trade surplus widened to a record monthly high of RM40.38 billion, reflecting export growth outpaced import significantly, marking the 73rd consecutive month of surplus since May 2020. 

Export growth was primarily driven by manufactured and mining products, both of which recorded double-digit expansion. Electrical and electronic (E&E) products remained the key contributor, increasing by RM38 billion to a new record high, supported by robust demand for artificial intelligence (AI)-related and automotive technologies. Growth was also reinforced by higher exports of petroleum products, liquefied natural gas (LNG) and optical and scientific equipment.

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Trade Performance : May 2026 and January - May 2026
Trade Performance : May 2026 and January - May 2026 (Infographic)