MATRADE COMMITTED TO STRENGTHENING MSME GLOBAL REACH WITH BUDGET 2026 ALLOCATIONS

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 13 (Bernama) -- The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) is committed to fully utilising the allocations announced under Budget 2026 to strengthen support for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in penetrating global markets. 

The allocations include RM60 million under the Market Development Grant to assist MSMEs in exporting their products and services to both existing and new markets, and RM500 million in soft loans through EXIM Bank Malaysia Bhd to help companies affected by global trade tariff tensions and to support export expansion activities.

To further empower the halal industry, financing of up to RM100 million through SME Bank, and enhanced government guarantees via Syarikat Jaminan Pembiayaan Perniagaan Bhd of up to RM2 billion have been allocated.

Additionally, through SME Bank’s “Jaguh Serantau” programme, RM200 million in loans will be provided to help Bumiputera SMEs penetrate export markets.

MATRADE chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican said the funds would catalyse Malaysian companies to step out and capture high-potential markets. 

“This is not only about strengthening our existing presence but also about building the ‘Malaysia Brand’ that is trusted globally, through high-quality products and services recognised around the world,” he said in a statement today. 

Reezal Merican said MATRADE would continue focusing on emerging markets that offer strong growth potential, including Latin America, Central Asia, and South Asia. 

“In the first eight months of this year, Malaysia’s exports to Latin America, Central Asia, and Africa recorded growth of 26.3 per cent, 22.3 per cent, and 4.7 per cent, respectively,” he said. 

 Reezal Merican emphasised that Malaysia, currently ranked 25th among the world’s largest exporters according to the World Trade Organisation, aims to further strengthen its position in global trade networks. 

“With these new measures, I am confident that we have the determination and capacity to elevate Malaysia’s trade position over time, ensuring lasting economic prosperity for future generations,” he said.

-- BERNAMA