Image credit: The Star
The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) has pledged to fully utilise the allocations announced in Budget 2026 to strengthen support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in expanding to global markets.
The strategic provisions include RM60 million under the Market Development Grant (MDG) to assist MSMEs in exporting products and services to both existing and new markets. An additional RM500 million in soft loans will be made available through EXIM Bank to help companies impacted by global tariff tensions and to support export expansion activities.
To further empower the country’s halal industry, SME Bank will allocate up to RM100 million in financing for halal SMEs, while the government guarantee under SJPP will be increased to RM2 billion. Additionally, SME Bank will provide RM200 million in loans under the Regional Champions Programme to help Bumiputera SMEs enter export markets.
MATRADE will continue focusing on emerging markets such as Latin America, Central Asia, and South Asia, which have recorded encouraging export growth this year of 26.3%, 22.3%, and 4.7% respectively.
Chairman Dato’ Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican said the Budget 2026 allocations reflect a clear commitment by the government to prioritise international trade as a key driver of inclusive economic growth.
“Budget 2026 is not just a financial allocation, but a ‘Declaration of Commitment’ by the MADANI Government under the leadership of the Prime Minister. It proves that international trade remains a core driver of Malaysia’s economic growth,” he said.
“The announced allocations will enable our MSMEs to rise and move faster. These funds are a catalyst for Malaysian companies to ‘step out’ and dominate high-potential markets, building a trusted global Malaysian brand through high-quality products and services,” he added.
He noted that although Malaysia currently ranks 25th among the world’s largest exporters, as reported by the World Trade Organization (WTO), the country remains committed to improving its trade standing in the years to come.
Source: https://www.businesstoday.com.my/2025/10/14/matrade-to-channel-budget-2026-allocations-towards-strengthening-malaysias-export-ecosystem/