IN the pursuit of achieving a quantum leap in export growth, the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) is committed to positioning Malaysia as a globally competitive nation and promoting local enterprises to the world through its 46 overseas-based and five regional offices.

“Acknowledging that to hinge solely upon national-level promotions is inadequate to drive a nation’s export growth. Malaysian businesses must aim to expand their presence in the global markets,” said Matrade chief executive officer Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz.

Correspondingly, Matrade’s facilities – namely the Business Information Centre (BIC), Malaysia Export Exhibition Centre (MEEC), Market Development Grant (MDG), Services Export Fund (SEF), advisory services and MyExport Services – are set for companies which have registered with Matrade to obtain support, real-time market intelligence reports and trade leads to keep abreast of the latest trends.‘Malaysian businesses must aim to expand their presence in the global markets,’ said Mustafa.‘Malaysian businesses must aim to expand their presence in the global markets,’ said Mustafa.

Despite the economic downturn triggered by the pandemic, Malaysia’s trade managed to make a breakthrough by setting a new record when it surpassed the RM2tril mark, with exports valued at RM1.24tril – achieving 99% of the 12th Malaysia Plan target for 2025.

To uphold this achievement, for 2022 Matrade has outlined 286 exporters development and export promotion programmes based on the strategic directions of the National Trade Blueprint (NTBp), with greater emphasis on digitalisation and sustainability.

To expand Malaysian-made products and services – including the high-value sectors like medical, pharmaceutical and aerospace – in establishing substantial global presence, MATRADE’s export promotion programmes encompass impactful events notably trade fairs, export acceleration missions, trade investment missions, and international sourcing programmes in conjunction with major trade events.

The majority of the programmes target Asean, Europe, China, West Asia, the Americas and East Asia markets.

Malaysian companies’ participation at trade events such as the Expo Dubai 2020, China-Asean Expo (CAEXPO) and Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition (ADIPEC) enables them to explore more opportunities to expand exports.

Matrade has been continuously assisting companies in enhancing exports and strengthening global market access.

Registered with Matrade since 2001, Marrybrown has grown to become one of the world’s largest halal fast-food chains with over 500 outlets in 16 countries including Sweden, the Middle East, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Myanmar, India, Maldives, and Africa.

“The effort made by Matrade’s global team amid the pandemic is highly appreciated and should be commended,” said MIT Innovation Sdn Bhd CEO Ahmed Tahoun who benefited from the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston last year, resulting in prospective sales.

Since 2017, Doluvo Sdn Bhd (Pops Malaya) has benefited from Matrade’s programmes, which have helped the company raise its international export targets based on quality leads provided.

Mohd Mustafa shared that Matrade’s annual flagship event – the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS 2022) – is back and will take place in a hybrid setting from Sept 7 to 10.

“Thus, I invite your organisation to take part in this premier international halal event,” he added.

Get in touch with Matrade via its offices, social media platforms or visit www.matrade.gov.my for more information.