Malaysia recorded export sales worth RM376.14 million at the 22nd China–ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO), held from 17 to 21 September 2025 in Nanning, Guangxi, China. The Malaysia Pavilion, led by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), featured 70 exhibitors and highlighted the nation’s growing appeal in the regional market.
This robust performance underscores rising demand for Malaysian products and services across the China–ASEAN corridor, further enhancing trade relations with Malaysia’s largest trading partner.
MATRADE Drives Export Growth and Market Expansion
Dato’ Sri Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz, Chief Executive Officer of MATRADE, remarked that the strong results reaffirm Malaysia’s competitiveness and resilience in the face of global trade challenges. He emphasised MATRADE’s continued commitment to expanding opportunities for Malaysian companies, particularly in fast-growing second- and third-tier Chinese cities such as Nanning.
Malaysia’s participation highlighted strategic sectors including education, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, construction materials, technology and artificial intelligence. Popular Malaysian products such as durian, white coffee, biscuits and bird’s nest also continued to perform exceptionally well with Chinese buyers.
High-Level Support and Strategic Collaborations
The Malaysia Pavilion was officiated by YAB Dato’ Sri Haji Fadillah Haji Yusof, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, alongside His Excellency Fang Lingmin of the CPC Guangxi Standing Committee. Their presence reinforced bilateral cooperation and Malaysia’s strategic positioning within the region.
- Business matching programmes
- Product selection and pitching sessions
- Live streaming engagements with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs)
- Media interviews with Chinese outlets
Live streaming sessions alone attracted nearly 340,000 views and 506,000 likes, demonstrating strong consumer engagement and digital reach in China.
MoUs, Site Visits and Industry Recognition
More than 30 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), Memoranda of Agreement (MoAs), Joint Ventures and Letters of Intent were exchanged during the expo. Many were outcomes of the curated B2B engagements coordinated by MATRADE.
Delegates also conducted site visits to the China–Malaysia Qinzhou Industrial Park (CMQIP) and the China–ASEAN Mercantile Exchange (CAMEX), providing Malaysian businesses with strategic insights into market access platforms and trade facilitation mechanisms.
Malaysia received multiple accolades at CAEXPO 2025, including:
- Special Supporter for AI Cooperation
- Best Organiser of Trade Visitors
- Best Organiser of Business Promotional Matching Activities
Additionally, three Malaysian brands were recognised by the CAEXPO Secretariat:
- The Smarter Solution Edge Sdn Bhd (Golden Award – Voice for Health Recording Kit)
- Ministry of Plantation and Commodities (Silver Award – Red Palm Oil)
- Global Premium Resources Sdn Bhd (Best Popularity Award – Cookies and Chocolate)
Gateway to the China Market and Future Opportunities
CAEXPO continues to serve as a premier platform for Malaysian exporters looking to strengthen their foothold in China and ASEAN. The event allows companies to:
- Showcase high-value products and services
- Build long-term partnerships
- Understand consumer trends
- Increase global visibility
Following its success this year, MATRADE encourages Malaysian exporters—especially those pursuing new market entry or expansion in China—to participate in CAEXPO 2026 and capitalise on the growing trade opportunities.
