Malaysia posts record-high trade in 2025 as December exports surge

Malaysia saw a record-high trade performance in 2025 with a higher-than-expected surge in outbound shipments in December boosting the export-reliant economy, government data showed on Tuesday. Total trade for 2025 reached a record value of 3.1 trillion ringgit ($765.4 billion), a 6.3% increase from a year ago, the trade ministry said in a statement. Exports in 2025 rose 6.5% year-on-year, while imports grew 6.2% annually, resulting in a trade surplus of 151.8 billion ringgit over the year, the ministry said. “This performance was achieved despite rising global uncertainties, including geopolitical tensions, supply chain realignments and rising risks of protectionism,” the ministry said.