MATRADE Promotes Malaysia as a Source of Sustainable Plastics in Germany
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2019, KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s growing strength in the manufacture of sustainable and innovative plastics takes centre at K 2019 trade fair, thanks to the effort by Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), to coordinate the participation of Malaysian companies at the event from 16 – 23 October 2019 in Dusseldorf, Germany.
This year marks MATRADE’s eight participation in this international event. Thirty five representatives from 12 Malaysian companies are set to showcase their high-quality and innovative products and services to over 200,000 visitors from more than 60 countries.
During the event, the Malaysian companies will be showcasing sustainable plastics as well as chemicals and chemicals products related to the plastic and rubber sector such as bio-resins, eco-packaging products, recycled resins, plastics packaging, natural and synthetic rubber, rubber moulding, raw materials of rubber and plastics as well as design services.
According to S.Jai Shankar, the Director of Oil and Gas, Chemicals and Chemicals Products and Energy at MATRADE, the Malaysia pavilion at K 2019 emphasises on sustainability and green elements in tandem with the global efforts to enhance sustainable development.
“Among the elements that we looked into when choosing the Malaysian delegation include integration of green elements in their operations and initiatives including that which related to securing certifications, product’s innovation as well as company policies. It is encouraging to note that many Malaysian companies are ready and are moving in line with the Government’s initiative towards sustainable development.†Jai Shankar said.
Apart from facilitating participation in the trade fair, MATRADE’s office in Frankfurt will also organise pre-arranged business matching sessions between the Malaysian exporters and potential buyers. The business-matching platform serves as an effective channel for Malaysian companies to connect directly with international businesses in exploring more trade opportunities within European Union (EU) and other regions.
“MATRADE as Malaysia’s trade promotion organisation has more than two decades of experience in coordinating effective business matching sessions for Malaysian companies. Therefore, we hope through K 2019, the participants are able to secure credible business leads,†Jai Shankar adds.
Furthermore, MATRADE has arranged for the Malaysian delegation to be involved in several business presentations and seminars related to sustainable development and circular economy.
In 2018, trade between Malaysia and EU recorded a substantial growth of 9.6 per cent to RM218.22 billion, compared to RM198.71 billion in 2017. Total export recorded an increase of 8.2 per cent amounted to RM111.18 billion for 2018 from RM106.91 billion in 2017.
Meanwhile trade of chemicals and chemical products between Malaysia and EU registered an impressive growth of 22.8 per cent to RM147.03 billion, compared to RM119.58 billion in 2017. Export of chemicals and chemical products grew by 45.4 per cent amounted RM2.23 billion with top five products exported were chemical materials & products, binders for foundry moulds or cores, chemical products & preparations of chemical or allied industries, organic chemicals, plastics in primary form and inorganic chemicals.
