PUTRAJAYA — Malaysia’s trade performance shattered previous records in May, as a surge in demand for artificial intelligence (AI) and automotive technologies propelled exports to an all-time monthly high.

Data released by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (Miti) reveals that total trade jumped 29.8 per cent year-on-year to RM327.63 billion. This represents the fastest pace of growth in 44 months.

Exports were the primary driver, climbing 45.3 per cent to a record RM184 billion, eclipsing the previous high set in April. This milestone marks the 11th consecutive month of export expansion and the strongest growth rate seen since August 2022.

While imports grew at a more moderate 14.1 per cent to RM143.62 billion, the gap between the two pushed the trade surplus to a historic peak of RM40.38 billion. This extends Malaysia’s unbroken streak of trade surpluses to 73 consecutive months, dating back to May 2020.

The growth was anchored by manufactured and mining products, with electrical and electronic (E&E) products emerging as the standout performer. The sector added RM38 billion to the total, hitting a new record high fuelled by the global appetite for AI-related technologies and automotive components.

Petroleum products, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and optical and scientific equipment also contributed significantly to the gains.