Matrade strengthens Malaysia’s export competitiveness via NTBp

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia has established itself as one of the most trade-friendly countries in the world, exporting a competitive range of products to more than 200 global markets.

In 2022, Malaysia’s trade recorded a historic performance with trade, exports, imports and trade surplus hitting all-time highs. Last year, the country’s trade to GDP (gross domestic product) ratio was 159.3%.

With the government committed to rejuvenating and repositioning Malaysia in the global economy under the 12th Malaysia Plan 2021-2025, the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) complements efforts to realize these aspirations.

Recognizing the significant contribution of trade to the Malaysian economy, a National Trade Blueprint (NTBp) was commissioned by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (Miti) and developed by Matrade. It is a five-year plan to improve the country’s export competitiveness by strengthening the business ecosystem and positioning Malaysia as a leading export country.

“This blueprint reflects its importance and demonstrates the government’s proactive approach in addressing the challenges Malaysia must address to remain relevant in global trade,” said Datuk Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz, CEO of Matrade.

He added that Matrade is coordinating concerted efforts from ministries, agencies and other stakeholders within the business ecosystem, which is critical to the successful implementation of the NTBp.

The NTBp aims to take Malaysia’s trading ecosystem to the next level and future-proof it for the challenges ahead.

The aim of the NTBp is to create a positive impact on the nation through increased export earnings for exporters, enhance Malaysia’s competitiveness and rank in global trade, and improve the welfare of the Rakyat.