Malaysian exports recorded an extraordinary surge in April when they grew at the fastest rate in more than three years, driven by strong demand from the electronics sector and increased orders from major global markets.
According to official data from the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), the country's total exports soared to a record high of RM182.74 billion, up 36.9% compared to April last year. The performance far exceeded market expectations which only estimated growth of around 9.5%.
On a monthly basis, exports also increased by 23%, showing that Malaysia's trade momentum continues to strengthen despite ongoing global economic uncertainties.
The electrical and electronics (E&E) sector remained the main driver as exports in this category surged 46% year-on-year. MITI informed that the increase was driven by high demand from the global artificial intelligence (AI) and automotive electronics industries.
In addition, petroleum product exports increased 70% while shipments of machinery and equipment grew 27% throughout April.
In terms of trade destinations, exports to China increased by 39%, marking the fastest growth in five years for Malaysia's largest trading partner. Exports to the United States also surged by 39%, reflecting continued strong external demand for Malaysian products.
At the same time, total gross imports increased by 20% to RM153.99 billion as the influx of consumer goods successfully offset the weakness in imports from other sectors.
Imports of consumer goods rose by 5.6%, supported by increased demand for durable goods. However, imports of capital goods fell by 21% due to lower demand for non-transport assets.
Imports of intermediate goods, which include components and spare parts for final assembly, also fell by 19% compared to the previous year.
On a monthly basis, overall imports increased by 24% in April.
The stronger trade performance allowed Malaysia's trade surplus to widen to RM28.75 billion compared to RM5.13 billion in April last year and RM24.5 billion in March 2026.
MITI stressed that the government will continue to closely monitor global trade developments while ensuring that the resilience of the country's trade sector continues to be strengthened to maintain the current growth momentum.
