MATRADE Launches 'Resilience through Intelligence' Plan to Shield Malaysian Exporters

MATRADE unveiled its Strategic Mitigation Plan titled Resilience through Intelligence to protect Malaysian exporters amid escalating global trade friction and geopolitical uncertainty. Q1 2026 exports rose 12.7% to RM426.53 billion with a trade surplus of RM63.22 billion (+54%), though 90.5% of manufacturers face disruptions from rising logistics costs and raw material shortages. Key measures include transforming 47 overseas offices into Frontline Intelligence Hubs, launching the AI-powered MIVA assistant on the MDTP platform for 24/7 support, and forming a Trade Resilience Taskforce to address Middle East conflict impacts.