The Malaysian trade surplus experienced a significant increase in December compared to the previous year, as export growth outpaced that of imports, according to data released by the statistical office on Monday.
The trade surplus reached MYR 19.2 billion in December, up from MYR 11.8 billion in the same month last year, and showed an increase from the MYR 15.0 billion recorded in November.
Exports saw a substantial annual rise of 16.9% in December, propelled by gains in both domestic shipments and re-exports. Meanwhile, imports climbed at an annual growth rate of 11.9%, a noticeable increase from the 1.6% rise observed in November.
Seasonally adjusted figures revealed a 5.8% monthly increase in exports, while imports grew by 8.9%.
For the entire year spanning January to December 2024, exports, imports, and total trade advanced by 5.7%, 13.2%, and 9.2% respectively, as reported by the agency.
