Malaysia eyes trade expansion following multiple high-level bilateral talks

Malaysia is accelerating efforts to strengthen global trade and investment partnerships after Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim held a series of high-level meetings with leaders from Australia, Pakistan, Turkiye, and Palestine.

According to Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, the discussions focused on deepening economic ties through strategic reviews and expansion of key free trade agreements (FTAs), including those with Australia, Pakistan, and Turkiye.

“Our aim is clear: to drive economic growth that is inclusive, resilient and brings shared prosperity,” Tengku Zafrul said in a post on X. “We are also exploring high-impact opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, the digital economy and the global halal market.”

The Malaysia-Turkiye FTA is set to be expanded to cover services and investment, while ongoing reviews are expected to enhance the Malaysia-Australia FTA and the Malaysia-Pakistan Closer Economic Partnership Agreement.

In a show of solidarity, Malaysia reaffirmed its support for the Palestinian economy and extended invitations to all four countries to participate in the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) 2025, billed as the world’s largest halal industry event.

The engagements mark a continued push by Malaysia to position itself as a regional hub for trade, innovation and halal industry leadership, while reinforcing its commitment to international cooperation across multiple regions.