Malaysia’s exports rose 34% to RM1.571 trillion in the first nine months of 2026, as AI and semiconductor demand drove a RM253.88 billion increase in electrical and electronics export value.
Malaysia’s exports rose 34% to RM1.571 trillion in January–September 2026, with electrical and electronics shipments gaining RM253.88 billion as demand for AI hardware and semiconductors boosted trade.
Electrical and electronics (E&E) products, including semiconductors, printed circuit boards (PCBs) and passive components, were key contributors to Malaysia’s record nine-month export performance, according to the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE).
Growing demand for AI hardware and data-centre infrastructure supported electronics shipments, strengthening Malaysia’s role in the global semiconductor supply chain through chip assembly and testing operations.
Malaysia’s total trade reached RM2.91 trillion, up 30.1% year-on-year. Imports rose 25.7% to RM1.339 trillion, driven partly by intermediate goods such as semiconductor wafers, chemical feedstocks and machinery used by export-oriented industries. The country recorded a trade surplus of RM232.38 billion.
Exports to non-traditional markets, including Africa, Central Asia, South Asia and Latin America, increased 21.5% to RM136.36 billion, indicating broader market diversification. Exports to free trade agreement partners reached RM986.38 billion, accounting for 62.8% of total exports.
However, the outlook depends on sustained semiconductor demand and AI infrastructure investment. Normalising lead times, potential changes in hyperscaler spending, semiconductor export controls and competition from Vietnam, Thailand and Indonesia could affect future growth.
MATRADE Director-General Indera Abu Bakar Yusof attributed the performance to the resilience of Malaysian exporters and small and medium-sized enterprises, alongside efforts to help domestic businesses enter emerging markets.
