Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation

RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA, 22 SEPTEMBER 2025 (MONDAY) -  In a powerful display of resilience and strategic foresight, Malaysia’s furniture and interior design sector has achieved a landmark success at INDEX Saudi Arabia 2025. Despite facing a landscape of global trade uncertainties and geopolitical tensions, Malaysian companies secured an impressive RM205.83 million in sales, surpassing the RM200 million target.

The strong performance at this premier trade event, held from 9 to 11 September at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Centre, underscores Malaysia's growing influence in the Middle East. Led by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), the results were a testament to the high-quality products and innovative designs showcased. The total sales were driven by RM14.6 million in immediate sales and an outstanding RM191.2 million in potential sales. The delegation also received 721 trade inquiries, signalling robust interest in Malaysian furniture.

This remarkable achievement is a key victory in the industry's ongoing efforts to diversify its export markets and reduce its reliance on traditional regions. The timing is particularly strategic, allowing Malaysian companies to capitalise on the dynamic economic growth of Saudi Arabia, fuelled by ambitious initiatives like Saudi Vision 2030 and preparations for the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

The Malaysia Pavilion showcased 14 companies, with six (6) exhibiting directly under MATRADE. Key partners, including CTCS Worldwide Sdn Bhd (a subsidiary of the Malaysian Timber Industry Board) and the Malaysian Furniture Exporter, Manufacturer & Designer Association (MEDA), also highlighted products from an additional eight (8) companies.

With Malaysia's furniture exports to Saudi Arabia already experiencing strong growth—reaching RM119.7 million in the first seven months of 2025 (a 16.6% increase over the previous year)—the positive outcomes from INDEX Saudi Arabia 2025 are a clear indicator of the market's vast and untapped potential.

According to the Trade Commissioner of MATRADE Jeddah, Mr. Yazrin Syakhairi Mahlan, "The participating companies were extremely pleased with the quality of the event". "Amid challenges from recent US tariff announcements and the current geopolitical situation, participating in INDEX Saudi Arabia was the right choice. We look forward to building on this momentum and further strengthening trade relations with our partners in the Middle East”, Mr. Yazrin added.