Malaysia recorded a trade surplus of MYR 28.1 billion in August 2026, up from MYR 15.9 billion a year earlier and above market expectations of MYR 25.3 billion. Exports surged 45.5% year-on-year to MYR 191.1 billion, accelerating from 38% growth in July and market expectations. Imports rose 41.1% to MYR 163.0 billion. Manufactured goods increased 50.4% and accounted for 89.5% of exports, with electrical and electronic products up 66.5%. Mining exports climbed 43.3%, led by higher shipments of tin, metalliferous ores and metal scrap, and liquefied natural gas, although crude petroleum exports declined 19.3%. Agricultural exports fell 21.4% because of lower palm oil and palm-based product and sawlog shipments. Exports to all 10 major destinations grew, led by the US, Singapore, China and the European Union. Total exports for January-August reached MYR 1,356.2 billion, up 31.2% from a year earlier.