Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE)
About MATRADE
The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) is the national trade promotion agency of Malaysia, operating under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI). Established in 1993, MATRADE plays a crucial role in enhancing Malaysia’s international trade competitiveness by assisting local businesses in penetrating and expanding their presence in the global market.
Core Business and Specialization
MATRADE is committed to developing Malaysia’s export sector through various trade facilitation programs and services, including:
- Export Promotion: Organizing trade fairs, business matching, and export acceleration programs to connect Malaysian businesses with international buyers.
- Trade Advisory Services: Providing customized market intelligence, trade data analytics, and regulatory insights to Malaysian exporters.
- Market Intelligence & Research: Offering detailed export and import statistics, industry reports, and market entry strategies.
- Trade Missions & Delegations: Facilitating B2B trade meetings, official trade missions, and international buyer programs.
- Financial Assistance: Supporting local exporters through export incentives, grants, and financial support schemes.
Market Presence and Growth
- Headquarters: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Global Network: 46 MATRADE offices worldwide, including major cities like London, New York, Dubai, Tokyo, and Shanghai.
- Annual Export Facilitation Value: Over RM 200 billion (USD 42 billion) in trade transactions facilitated annually.
- Key Export Sectors: Electrical & electronics, oil & gas, palm oil, automotive, halal products, and professional services.
Competitive Advantages & USP
- Government-Backed Trade Agency: MATRADE is Malaysia’s official trade promotion arm, providing credibility and strong global networking.
- Comprehensive Trade Support: Offering end-to-end trade facilitation for Malaysian businesses entering foreign markets.
- Specialized Industry Expertise: Covering a wide range of industries including manufacturing, agriculture, halal, and digital economy.
- Global Trade Connectivity: MATRADE has established bilateral and multilateral trade relationships with key economies worldwide.
- Technology-Driven Export Assistance: Provides digital trade platforms, e-commerce integration, and AI-powered market intelligence tools.
International Trade Facilitation & Impact
MATRADE actively supports Malaysia’s economic growth by boosting international trade and investment. Key trade impact insights:
- Malaysia’s Total Export Value (2023): RM 1.55 trillion (USD 325 billion).
- Number of Companies Assisted Annually: Over 10,000 Malaysian exporters.
- Major Trade Promotion Events: Hosting Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS), INSP Program, and MyTrade Platform.
- Export Success Stories: Facilitating over RM 15 billion (USD 3.2 billion) in SME export deals annually.
Certifications & Compliance
As a government-backed entity, MATRADE ensures full compliance with international trade and investment regulations, including:
- ASEAN Free Trade Agreements (FTA) Compliance
- World Trade Organization (WTO) Trade Facilitation Standards
- ISO 9001:2015 Certified for Quality Management in Trade Promotion
- Halal Trade Certification Compliance for Food & Beverage Exports
Testimonials & Industry Recognition
- "MATRADE has been instrumental in helping our company expand into the Middle East market through their trade missions." – CEO, Malaysian Halal Food Exporter
- "Thanks to MATRADE’s financial incentives, we successfully launched our IT services in the UK." – Managing Director, Tech Solutions Malaysia
- "Their market intelligence reports helped us understand the European demand for Malaysian rubber products." – Export Manager, Industrial Goods Manufacturer
Achievements & Industry Recognition
- Ranked among the Top 10 National Trade Promotion Agencies Globally.
- Facilitated over RM 200 billion (USD 42 billion) in trade transactions annually.
- Organizer of the Largest Halal Trade Exhibition in the World (MIHAS).
- Awarded ‘Best Government Trade Promotion Initiative’ in ASEAN (2022).
Future Outlook
MATRADE is committed to strengthening Malaysia’s global trade footprint and driving the digital transformation of exports through:
- Expansion of Digital Trade Platforms: Enhancing the MyExport & eTRADE 2.0 platforms for global e-commerce integration.
- Sustainability & ESG Initiatives: Supporting green exports and sustainable trade practices.
- Halal Industry Growth: Strengthening Malaysia’s position as the global leader in Halal exports.
- New Market Penetration: Focusing on Africa, Latin America, and emerging Asian economies.
Conclusion
MATRADE remains a pillar of Malaysia’s global trade success, empowering local businesses to expand internationally through trade promotion, market intelligence, and strategic partnerships. With its strong government backing, extensive global network, and digital transformation efforts, MATRADE is set to drive Malaysia’s export sector to new heights.
