Country: Malaysia

Overview

Decades of growth and stability have helped make Malaysia an industrialised, relatively open economy with consistent growth. Malaysia offers opportunities across a wide range of sectors for UK exporters.

Malaysia has a young and growing population of over 30 million. An increasingly affluent middle class is willing to pay for quality. Malaysian society is multi-cultural and multi-lingual, but English is the business language and is widely spoken -particularly in metropolitan areas.

British brands are well respected in the market although competition can be tough and the price is a big factor in decision-making.

The UK concluded negotiations to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) on 31 March 2023 and signed the Protocol of Accession on 16 July 2023. Malaysia is a member of the CPTPP.

Further reading from the Department for Business and Trade:

Malaysia emerges as a gateway for British companies looking to expand in the thriving Southeast Asian market. With a dynamic economy, strategic location, and demand across key sectors, Malaysia offers a wealth of opportunities for British businesses seeking to establish a strong presence in the region.