The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) has facilitated RM542.6 million in business deals for 10 Malaysian companies following their participation in InnoTrans 2026, one of the world’s leading international trade fairs for rail and transport technology.
Held in Berlin, Germany, from 22 to 25 September 2026, the exhibition provided Malaysian rail industry players with opportunities to connect with international buyers, explore partnerships and expand their presence in global supply chains.
During the four-day event, participating Malaysian companies held 208 business meetings and trade enquiries, securing 13 strategic agreements and collaborative arrangements.
Connecting Malaysian SMEs to Global Rail Supply Chains
MATRADE chief executive officer Dato’ Indera Abu Bakar Yusof said the participation marked an important milestone in strengthening the internationalisation of Malaysian rail companies and integrating local capabilities into global manufacturing and supply chains.
He added that MATRADE’s objective extended beyond helping Malaysian exporters access international markets. The agency also aims to develop more homegrown small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and enable them to participate in domestic supply chains, strengthening Malaysia’s wider rail industry ecosystem.
The initiative is intended to create more opportunities for local companies to contribute their expertise and capabilities to the rail sector while supporting the industry’s long-term development.
Deutsche Bahn Expresses Interest in Global Sourcing Programme
Among the key outcomes of InnoTrans 2026 was the establishment of strategic connections between Malaysian companies and major German railway operators, including Deutsche Bahn AG, Germany’s national railway company.
Following the engagement, Deutsche Bahn expressed interest in joining MATRADE’s Global Sourcing Programme (GSP), a supply chain initiative designed to bring large international companies into Malaysia’s supply chain.
The potential engagement could create opportunities for Malaysian suppliers to connect with major global industry players and explore participation in international procurement and manufacturing networks.
Government Collaboration Supports Rail Industry Expansion
MATRADE said its participation at InnoTrans reflected a whole-of-government approach to promoting Malaysia’s capabilities in the international rail industry.
The agency worked with several stakeholders, including the Ministry of Transport (MOT), Malaysia Rail Industry Corporation (MARIC), MRT Corporation Berhad (MRT Corp) and Invest Selangor Berhad.
The collaboration aimed to strengthen the promotion of Malaysian rail industry capabilities and support local companies seeking to expand into international markets.
Malaysia’s Rail Exports Show Strong Growth
Malaysia’s rail sector recorded RM1.3 billion in total trade in 2025, while exports of rail locomotive and rolling stock parts grew by 83.5%.
From January to August 2026, rail exports reached RM359.9 million as Malaysia continued to strengthen its regional and industrial capabilities.
MATRADE’s participation in InnoTrans 2026 forms part of broader efforts to build on this momentum by helping Malaysian companies secure international business opportunities, develop strategic partnerships and become more integrated into global rail manufacturing and supply chains.
