Malaysia’s trade with BRICS member countries rose 20% to $114 billion in the first half of this year. Deputy Foreign Minister Lukanisman Awang Sauni gave the figures to the Dewan Rakyat, the lower chamber of parliament, according to NST.Exports increased 17.4% to $43 billion. Imports grew 21.7% to $71 billion. Both figures compare with the same period last year.
Lukanisman named China, Indonesia and India as Malaysia’s largest trading partners within BRICS. Together, the three countries account for about 90% of total trade with the bloc.He was replying to Dr Ronald Kiandee. The lawmaker asked about the objectives of Malaysia’s BRICS partner status and its benefits compared with existing bilateral cooperation.
Lukanisman said trade with BRICS countries reached $201 billion last year. This marked a 3.4% rise from $194 billion in 2024. The bloc accounted for 27.7% of Malaysia’s overall trade.
He said Malaysia’s participation aims to diversify its economic partners. It also seeks to reduce reliance on traditional markets and strengthen the voice of developing countries in international economic and financial governance.
The deputy minister said cooperation through BRICS adds value and complements existing bilateral mechanisms and free trade agreements.He said the grouping gives Malaysia chances to expand exports to markets where it has no free trade agreements. It also helps attract investment and technology transfers in strategic sectors.