MALAYSIA'S TRADE PERFORMANCE NOVEMBER 2025

STRONGER TRADE PERFORMANCE DRIVEN BY CONTINUED STRENGTH IN E&E EXPORTS#

Trade Surges in November 2025, Extending Surplus Streak to 67 Months 

Malaysia’s trade performance strengthened further in November 2025, with trade registering double-digit growth of 11.1% year-on-year (y-o-y) to RM263.83 billion. Exports extended their upward trend for the fifth consecutive month, rising 7.0% to RM134.97 billion, while imports expanded by 15.8% to RM128.86 billion. Trade surplus of RM6.12 billion was recorded, marking the 67th consecutive month of surplus since May 2020.

Exports of electrical and electronic (E&E) products remained the key export growth contributor, rising by nearly RM8.0 billion, in line with the positive global outlook of the semiconductor industry. World Semiconductor Trade Statistics (WSTS) has revised upward its projection for global semiconductor sales growth to 22.5% in 2025 (previous projection: 15.4%). Other notable contributors to export growth included optical and scientific equipment as well as metalliferous ores and metal scrap, reflecting broad-based strength across multiple sectors.

Higher exports were registered to major trading partners, namely ASEAN, China, the European Union (EU) and Taiwan. Strong momentum in exports to Free Trade Agreement (FTA) partners remains, with significant increases recorded to Hong Kong SAR, Mexico, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), India, the United Kingdom (UK), Chile and Peru. Exports to Taiwan in particular, surged to a record high. 

For the period of January to November 2025, Malaysia recorded its highest cumulative values for trade, exports and imports. Trade rose 5.8% to RM2.775 trillion, exports increased by 6.1% to RM1.454 trillion and imports expanded by 5.6% to RM1.321 trillion, resulting in a trade surplus of RM132.56 billion.

Timor-Leste’s recent accession to ASEAN is expected to further strengthen regional trade integration and expand economic opportunities across Southeast Asia. As the country progressively participates in ASEAN trade agreements and regional supply chains, Malaysia stands to benefit from the expanded market access, enhanced trade connectivity and increased investment prospects.

In this regard, MITI and MATRADE encourage businesses to continue prioritising market diversification, strengthen supply chain resilience, remain responsive to global trade developments and strategically leverage Malaysia’s Free Trade Agreements.

Further details of Malaysia’s Trade Performance for November 2025 and January- November 2025 are available in the Appendix below, which should be read together with the Notes accompanying this report.

MINISTRY OF INVESTMENT, TRADE & INDUSTRY
19 DECEMBER 2025
Footnote: Malaysian companies are encouraged to fully utilise the support and assistance available to expand their global reach, grow, and remain competitive internationally. For more information on export support services, visit: https://www.matrade.gov.my/en/25-malaysian-exporters/services-for-exporters/111-exports-assistance

About MITI

MITI is the key driver in making Malaysia the preferred destination for quality investments and enhancing the nation's rising status as a globally competitive trading nation. Its objectives and roles are oriented towards ensuring Malaysia’s rapid economic development and help achieve the country's stated goal of becoming a developed nation.

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