How Malaysia’s Top 10 Exports Are Shaping Its Economy in 2024-25

Malaysia is well known due to its diverse economy which is supplemented by a strong export sector. The country is among the top exporters in the world, and it has an array of sought after products available on the world market. Malaysia still has a lot of economic force which puts it among the fastest growing economies of the world even with all the global challenges.

The latest reports on export and customs show that Malaysia total exports reached usd 329.45 billion in 2024 which is an increase of 5% in comparison to 2023. This accomplishment shows the available skilled manpower in the country which is always on the lookout for investment from foreign multinationals willing to set up their offices in South East Asia.

According to the exim data of 2024 for Malaysia and global trade data, this country is now the 26th ranked exporter in the world. In this article, we take a look at the top 10 exports from Malaysia and analyze the trade statistics for the year 2024-25.

Significance of Malaysia’s Exports in Global Trade and Economy

Because of the Asean, APEC, CPTPP, Commonwealth, RCEP and WTO, Malaysia has become an important position in global trade. Also, as of 2024, Malaysia's total exports achieved RM1.508 trillion, which is a 5.7% boost from the previous year. This continues to show how the country is diversifying to more advanced high value exports, unlike the older palm oil and rubber, which are traditional and no longer relevant.

Presently, the primary industries fueling the growth of the Malaysian economy are electronics manufacturing, petroleum refining, and manufacturing of chemicals since they have become the basis of its exports. Also, Malaysian goods exports rose to $85.17 billion in the first two months of 2025, which strengthens this trend.

The latest trade statistics reveal that Singapore remains as the leading export partner for Malaysia as their primary imports include refined petroleum. Other developing countries such as the United States have emerged as considerable markets for electrical and electronic products marking a change within the region. Moreover, Malaysia continues to dominate the energy sector with an average crude oil output of 467,000 barrels a day, maintaining their position as one of the leading oil producers in South East Asia.

Detailed List of Malaysia’s Top 10 Exports Based on HS Codes

The list of Malaysia’s top 10 exports by HS codes offers valuable insight into the nation's leading export commodities and industrial strengths. Spanning sectors such as electrical machinery, palm oil, and natural rubber, Malaysia's export portfolio reflects a well-diversified and dynamic economy. According to 2024 Malaysia trade data and customs export records, the following products represent the top contributors to Malaysia’s export performance, highlighting the key industries that are driving the country's growth on the global stage:

Electrical Machinery & Electronic Equipment (HS Code 85)

Total Export Value: $121.18 billion (36.78%)

Electrical machinery and equipment hold the top position as Malaysia’s most significant export category. This diverse group includes electronics, household appliances, and telecommunications devices. Malaysia's strong reputation for producing high-quality electronics has cemented its status as a global leader in this sector.

Mineral Fuels & Oils (HS Code 27)

Total Export Value: $47.46 billion (14.41%)

As a resource-rich nation, Malaysia exports a significant volume of mineral fuels and oils. This category encompasses products like petroleum, liquefied natural gas, and coal. The strong domestic and international demand for these energy resources plays a crucial role in driving Malaysia's export revenue.

Nuclear Reactors & Machinery (HS Code 84)

Total Export Value: $31.88 billion (9.68%)

Malaysia’s export of nuclear reactors and machinery highlights its growing role in the energy sector. With a strong emphasis on sustainable energy solutions, the country is well-positioned to expand its exports of nuclear technology and related equipment in the years ahead.

Animal and Vegetable Fats & Oils (HS Code 15)

Total Export Value: $18.72 billion (5.68%)

The export of animal and vegetable fats and oils underscores Malaysia’s strong agricultural sector. With its dominant position in palm oil production, Malaysia remains a leading global exporter of these essential commodities to markets worldwide.

Optical, Medical, and Surgical Instruments (HS Code 90)

Total Export Value: $15.48 billion (4.7%)

Malaysia’s export of optical, medical, and surgical instruments highlights its expertise in the healthcare sector. Known for producing high-quality medical devices, Malaysia is steadily gaining global recognition for its advanced healthcare products.

Plastics and Articles Thereof (HS Code 39)

Total Export Value: $9.68 billion (2.94%)

Plastics and articles thereof are a vital export category for Malaysia, showcasing the country’s strong manufacturing capabilities. The growing demand for plastic products across diverse industries fuels Malaysia’s export of these goods to global markets.

Rubber and Articles Thereof (HS Code 40)

Total Export Value: $6.71 billion (2.04%)

Malaysia’s export of rubber and its products underscores the country’s abundant natural resources and strong rubber industry. With a focus on high-quality production, Malaysia continues to solidify its position as a leading global exporter in this sector.

Aluminum and Articles Thereof (HS Code 76)

Total Export Value: $6.60 billion (2.01%)

The export of aluminum and its products highlights Malaysia’s strong metallurgical industry. As a key producer of aluminum goods, Malaysia meets the growing demand for these materials across various sectors, significantly contributing to its export revenue.

Iron and Steel (HS Code 72)

Total Export Value: $6.52 billion (1.98%)

Malaysia’s export of iron and steel products highlights its strong presence in the construction and manufacturing sectors. By focusing on the production of high-quality metals, Malaysia effectively meets the demand for these materials both domestically and on the global stage.

Miscellaneous Chemical Products (HS Code 38)

Total Export Value: $6.15 billion (1.87%)

The export of miscellaneous chemical products underscores Malaysia’s diverse and dynamic chemical industry. From pharmaceuticals to industrial chemicals, the country serves a wide range of markets with its high-quality chemical offerings. In addition to these top 10 products, Malaysia’s exports in 2024 also included a variety of other commodities, as outlined in our Malaysia Export Data. These included organic chemicals, cocoa, furniture, and copper, further reflecting the country's diverse export base.

Top Exports of Malaysia in 2024-25

In the 2024-25 fiscal year, Malaysia's top exported goods included integrated circuits, refined petroleum, palm oil, computers, and broadcasting equipment. These products have played a pivotal role in boosting Malaysia's economy and trade sector, highlighting the nation's diverse export capabilities. According to Malaysia's export statistics, the top 10 products exported in 2024-25 are as follows:

• Electronic Integrated Circuits: $74 billion
• Refined Petroleum: $29.0 billion
• Petroleum Gas: $14.5 billion
• Palm Oil: $11.8 billion
• Semiconductor Devices: $10.2 billion
• Telephones: $7.3 billion
• Crude Petroleum: $7 billion
• Automatic Data Processing Machines: $6.4 billion
• Measuring Instruments: $5.7 billion
• Storage Devices: $5 billion

Malaysia's Top 10 Export Partners in 2024-25: Exports by Country

In 2024-25, Malaysia’s top 10 export partners played a vital role in driving the country’s economic growth and trade. These partners contributed significantly to Malaysia’s export revenue, shaping the nation’s trade landscape. According to Malaysia’s export shipment data, the top 10 export partners for Malaysia in 2024 were:

• Singapore: $50.44 billion (15.3%) Singapore remains Malaysia's largest export destination, with a total trade value of $50.44 billion, accounting for 15.3% of Malaysia's total exports. The geographical proximity and strong economic ties between the two nations have fueled this robust trade relationship.
• USA: $43.43 billion (13.2%) The United States is Malaysia’s second-largest export partner, with a trade value of $43.43 billion, representing 13.2% of total exports. Key Malaysian exports to the US include electronics, palm oil, and rubber.
• China: $41 billion (12.4%) China is a major export partner for Malaysia, with a trade value of $41 billion, making up 12.4% of Malaysia's exports. Malaysia exports electrical machinery, optical and medical instruments, as well as chemicals to China.
• Hong Kong: $19.41 billion (5.9%) Hong Kong, a strategic financial hub, remains a key export partner for Malaysia, with a trade value of $19.41 billion, representing 5.9% of total exports.
• Japan: $18.05 billion (5.5%) Japan is another significant market for Malaysian exports, with a trade value of $18.05 billion, accounting for 5.5% of Malaysia's total exports. Malaysian exports to Japan include electronics, machinery, and petroleum products.
• Taiwan: $14.63 billion (5.4%) Taiwan has emerged as an important export partner, with a trade value of $14.63 billion, representing 5.4% of Malaysia’s exports. The demand for Malaysian electronics and machinery has driven this growing trade relationship.
• Thailand: $12.88 billion (3.9%) Thailand is a key export partner for Malaysia, with a trade value of $12.88 billion, accounting for 3.9% of total exports. Malaysia exports electrical machinery, plastics, and rubber to Thailand.
• Indonesia: $11.88 billion (3.6%) Indonesia, due to its proximity, is a significant export market for Malaysia, with a trade value of $11.88 billion, making up 3.6% of Malaysia’s total exports. The strong trade ties are bolstered by geographical and economic factors.
• South Korea: $11.78 billion (3.6%) South Korea is another important export partner, with a trade value of $11.78 billion, also accounting for 3.6% of Malaysia’s exports. Key exports to South Korea include electronics, machinery, and chemical products.
• Vietnam: $11.76 billion (3.6%) Vietnam rounds out Malaysia’s top 10 export partners with a trade value of $11.76 billion, representing 3.6% of Malaysia’s total exports. Malaysia exports electronics, textiles, and rubber products to Vietnam.

In addition to these key markets, Malaysia also exported goods to other countries, including India, Australia, the Netherlands, Germany, and the Philippines.

Historical Malaysia Exports: Data from the Last 10 Years

• 2014: $234.13 billion
• 2015: $200.89 billion
• 2016: $189.86 billion
• 2017: $217.71 billion
• 2018: $247.48 billion
• 2019: $238.16 billion
• 2020: $233.55 billion
• 2021: $299.28 billion
• 2022: $353.14 billion
• 2023: $312.96 billion
• 2024: $329.45 billion

Malaysia Export Data Report – January 2025

Trade Stats	Latest	Previous Month	Unit	Month of Trade
Balance of Trade	$0.76 billion	$4.00 billion	USD Billion	Jan 2025
Imports	$25.15 billion	$25.20 billion	USD Billion	Jan 2025
Exports	$25.91 billion	$29.20 billion	USD Billion	Jan 2025

Conclusion

In conclusion, Malaysia’s dynamic economy and robust export sector position it as a major player in the global market. The country’s top exports, including electronic integrated circuits, palm oil, and natural rubber, play a vital role in driving economic growth. With its strategic presence across diverse industries such as technology, agriculture, and energy, Malaysia is well-positioned for continued success in the global export market.

As we analyze Malaysia's global import export data, it’s evident that the country’s key exports have experienced remarkable growth, fueled by innovation and resilience. To access the latest Malaysia import-export data and trade trends, or to get a list of top Malaysia exporters,