“China, Indonesia and India remain Malaysia’s largest trading partners within BRICS, accounting for about 90% of total trade,” Deputy Foreign Minister Lukanisman Awang Sauni told the Dewan Rakyat, Muslim Network TV reported. Malaysia’s trade with BRICS member countries climbed 20% to $114 billion in the first half of the year, driven by a 17.4% rise in exports and a 21.7% surge in imports compared to the same period last year.
Trade Growth and Market Diversification in Malaysia
Total trade between Malaysia and the BRICS bloc reached $201 billion (RM846.5 billion) across the previous year, marking a 3.4% increase from $194 billion (RM818.04 billion) in 2024, according to figures presented in parliament. This volume accounted for 27.7% of Malaysia’s overall global trade. Deputy Foreign Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni explained that the government’s participation seeks to diversify economic partners, reduce reliance on traditional markets, and strengthen the voice of developing nations in international economic governance.
The deputy minister emphasized that Malaysia continues to benefit from its engagement with the bloc despite a current moratorium on full membership. The partnership facilitates trade through local currency settlements to reduce exposure to the US dollar. The expansion targets electrical and electronics, semiconductors, palm oil, green technology, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence.
BRICS now accounts for more than 1 in every 4 dollars Malaysia trades with the worldTrade with BRICS nations surged 20% in the first half of 2026, reaching roughly $114bn, said Malaysian Deputy FM Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni.In 2025, trade had already reached nearly $200bn —… pic.twitter.com/HnyggbcHbK
Malaysia maintains non-aligned status despite BRICS partnership
Malaysia maintains its non-aligned status on geopolitical issues despite its BRICS partnership. Lukanisman addressed lawmakers’ concerns regarding regional disputes, stating that matters such as the South China Sea will continue to be handled through established bilateral approaches and mechanisms rather than through the economic bloc. He noted that Malaysia uses the platform to voice its stance on international issues, including Palestine.
The Star reported that Lukanisman dismissed concerns over conflicting economic interests between BRICS and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, which includes the United States. He stated that Malaysia’s dual participation reflects a strategy to diversify economic approaches rather than depend on a single traditional arrangement. The Star added that Malaysia is positioned as a strategic link offering a stable economic framework to build confidence among external partners.
Malaysia trade with BRICS reached RM481.02 billion
Malaysia’s trade with BRICS reached RM481.02 billion in the first half of 2026, with exports rising to RM181.40 billion and imports growing to RM299.62 billion.
Frequently Asked Questions on Malaysia’s BRICS Status
What are Malaysia’s largest trading partners within BRICS?
China, Indonesia, and India remain the dominant trading partners within the bloc, accounting for approximately 90% of Malaysia’s total BRICS trade, as reported by Muslim Network TV.
How does Malaysia manage geopolitical disputes involving BRICS members?
Malaysia addresses long-standing regional concerns, such as the South China Sea disputes, through established bilateral approaches rather than through the economic group.
What is the current status of Malaysia’s membership in the bloc?
As reported by The Star, Malaysia participates as a strategic partner country while a moratorium remains in place regarding full membership in the economic bloc.
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