Malaysia's trade value in 2025 hit a record-breaking RM3 trillion, thanks to clear policies and good governance, according to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. This achievement comes despite global trade volatility caused by US tariffs. The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) will report a detailed breakdown of last year's trade performance later today. Anwar highlighted the importance of clear policy communication, discipline, and good governance in exploring new markets. Malaysia's GDP growth in 2025 exceeded estimates at 4.9%, with a surge in the final quarter driven by strong performances in key sectors and robust domestic demand. The October-to-December period saw a 5.7% GDP growth, faster than the previous quarter's 5.2% expansion. Anwar acknowledged the impact of geopolitical uncertainties and trade headwinds from the US's aggressive foreign policy on Malaysia's trade. However, the country's trade performance remained strong. The Anwar government's strategy to diversify export markets has proven successful, as evidenced by the record trade volume in 2025. The US remains one of Malaysia's top trading partners, with trade rising 30% to RM325.2 billion in 2024. Exports and imports to the US grew by 23.3% and 42.1%, respectively, reflecting increased demand for Malaysian goods. Anwar expressed optimism about exploring new markets and fields, including technology, and highlighted the success in expanding trade within the region and to new markets.
