KEPALA BATAS, March 23 — The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) targets new emerging markets this year to strengthen and enhance the country’s trade and economy.
Chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican said Malaysia must explore emerging markets in Africa, including countries like Egypt, Libya, and Botswana, which are not traditional partners of the country but are experiencing economic growth.
He said Malaysian businesses have ample space and opportunities to enter these countries.
“I believe that about 10 years ago, Africa had a population of around 800 million, and now it has risen to nearly 1.4 billion,” he told reporters after an Aidilfitri charity event here, where 600 people received cash aid and essential goods.
Reezal Merican highlighted that Matrade’s target is to achieve exports exceeding RM1.7 trillion this year.
He added that in light of geopolitical pressures and the trade war between China and the United States, exploring new markets is crucial for the sustainability of the country’s economy.
Reezal Merican noted that after Dubai and China, Malaysia is now looking into the potential of expanding into these emerging markets, which are hoped to yield trade returns for the national economy.
“Even though our country is small, it demonstrates our capabilities in the export sector, particularly in electrical and electronic goods, semiconductors, and with new strategies being implemented by the Investment, Trade, and Industry Ministry (Miti) under Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz,” he said.
Additionally, Reezal Merican said Matrade will be organising the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (Mihas) overseas for the second time this year, following its successful debut in Dubai last year.
He added that Mihas 2025 will take place in Shanghai, as part of the China International Import Expo in November, with the aim of increasing sales from last year.
— Bernama
