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Malaysia External Trade Development Corp (Matrade) will engage 13,000 Malaysian companies through its Exporters Development (ED) and Export Promotion (EP) programmes in the post-pandemic period next year.

Matrade has outlined 334 programmes in 2021, 277 of which are related to ED and 57 EP that will be focused on the creation of more export champions in high-value sectors, the utilisation of digital platforms, inclusiveness, tapping current market trends and forging strategic collaborations.

The ED programmes, in particular, are aimed at equipping companies with the skills to develop a strategic advantage and promote the values of sustainability as stipulated in the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

Matrade newly appointed CEO Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz (picture) said the agency will focus on helping Malaysian companies penetrate international markets in these challenging times.

“The year 2021 will see Matrade doubling its efforts in engaging digital tools to provide more business opportunities for Malaysian companies, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and mid-tier companies (MTCs),” he said in a statement.

“This will be carried out through strategic engagements with the public and private sectors in Malaysia and abroad to identify new export opportunities in both conventional and emerging sectors,” he added.

“Our engagements with companies will also be focusing on driving Malaysian SMEs and MTCs to be more prepared in areas such as sustainability, digital transformation, Internet of Things, IR4.0 and artificial intelligence,” he said, stressing that these factors play significant roles in ensuring the companies’ success in the international stage.

In addition to providing updated market insights, Matrade will virtually link foreign buyers with Malaysian companies through its 46 overseas offices.

For EP, a total of 57 programmes will be held throughout the year to enhance Malaysian companies’ export performance.

It will include participation in international trade fairs and trade missions (export acceleration and trade and investment missions). It also includes the International Sourcing Programme, Malaysia’s renowned business matching programme; and eBizMatch, a virtual format of business-to-business pre-arranged meetings which was introduced this year.

According to Matrade, physical participation in the programmes will be dependent upon the latest developments of health and safety regulations throughout the year.

2021 EP programmes will focus on Malaysia’s key export sectors such as food and beverage, services, building materials, lifestyle, oil and gas, aerospace, machinery and equipment, and medical and pharmaceutical, among others.

Just over half (32 programmes) from EP will be held in the RCEP (Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership) economies.

Malaysian companies looking to participate in the programmes may contact Matrade via email at info@matrade.gov.my, Matrade’s social media channels or visit www.matrade.gov.my.

Source: https://themalaysianreserve.com/2020/12/30/matrade-readies-334-programmes-in-2021/