Browse Data and Analysis

Malaysia was the 26th-largest export destination for U.S. agricultural products in 2022, totaling nearly $1.1 billion in value, and is a top prospect for exports of food and beverage ingredients because of its large and growing food processing industry.

Malaysia’s retail sales are projected to grow to US$1.8 billion in 2023. The Malaysian food and beverage retail market is a competitive landscape and is highly fragmented.

Malaysia was the 25th largest export destination for U.S. agricultural products in 2021 and is a top prospect for exports of food and beverage ingredients because of its large and growing food processing industry. Food and beverages manufactured in Malaysia not only serve domestic consumers but are also exported to many neighboring countries. U.S. exporters of dairy products, fresh and processed potatoes, food-grade soy, processed fruit and juices, tree nuts and more have many opportunities to supply Malaysian industry which depends on imports for key ingredients and inputs, and in doing so will reach consumers across Malaysia and throughout Southeast Asia.

Parties interested in exporting to Malaysia should be aware that country is strictly enforcing nutrition labeling requirements for processed foods.

Malaysia’s hotel, restaurant and institutional (HRI) industry is one of the fastest growing sectors in the country’s economy and is largely driven by robust tourism and consumer spending.

The Malaysia food retail sector is rapidly developing, and high-end/premium grocery stores are increasingly popular.

Malaysia’s multi-billion dollar food processing industry is driven by an expanding economy and increased consumer spending.

This report provides information on the export certification requirements of the Government of Malaysia.

Malaysia’s hotel, restaurant and institutional (HRI) industry is one of the fastest growing sectors in the country’s economy and is largely driven by robust tourism and consumer spending.

Malaysia’s retail sector is forecast to spur consumer spending in retail food and beverage industry with the abolishment of Goods & Services Tax (GST) effective June 1, 2018.

With per capita income of over $9,120 and a middle and upper class making up 50 percent of the population, Malaysia shows good potential for growth as a market for high value consumer products.

Malaysia has a dynamic hotel and restaurant industry. Changing lifestyles and growing middle class underpin demand.