The Embassy of Malaysia, through the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), is making strides to deepen economic ties between Malaysia and the Philippines by leading a delegation of ten Malaysian companies at PhilSME Expo 2025.
The Expo, which will take place from May 9 to 10 at the SMX Convention Centre in Manila, will showcase Malaysian innovations under the Malaysia Pavilion.
The Malaysian companies participating span sectors with significant growth potential, including halal-certified food and beverages and digital solutions. The aim is to foster business linkages, explore potential distributorships, and introduce Malaysian-quality products and technologies to the Philippine market.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 9 will mark the official launch of the Malaysia Pavilion.
Ambassador of Malaysia to the Philippines, Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, emphasized the strategic importance of the event: “With Malaysia being the Chair of ASEAN this year, our participation in PhilSME Expo 2025 is both timely and strategic as we lead efforts to advance regional cooperation and economic integration. This platform not only highlights the strength and innovation of Malaysian SMEs but also sets the stage for deeper Malaysia-Philippines business engagement.”
“As the Philippines prepares to assume the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2026, our collaboration here signals a shared vision of a more connected, resilient, and inclusive ASEAN economy,” he added.
Ahead of the Expo, MATRADE is partnering with Maybank Philippines to organize the Doing Business with Malaysia: Briefing and Business Matching Session on May 8. The session aims to provide market insights and facilitate one-on-one business meetings.
Ms. Intan Zalani, who heads MATRADE’s Manila office, said that 30 business meetings have been scheduled between Malaysian companies and potential Filipino partners.
“We hope that these engagements will lead to meaningful business partnerships, fostering stronger trade relations and unlocking new growth opportunities for Malaysian SMEs in the Philippines,” she said.
The collaboration comes at a time when trade between Malaysia and the Philippines is on the rise. From January to December 2024, total trade between the two countries amounted to $8.35 billion, marking a 5.5-percent increase compared to the previous year. Malaysian exports to the Philippines rose by 5 percent, driven by petroleum products, electrical and electronic products, palm oil, and chemicals, among others. Meanwhile, the Philippines’ exports to Malaysia included electrical products, machinery, and natural rubber.
Philippine companies looking to explore Malaysian products and services can contact MATRADE Manila at manila@matrade.gov.my for the latest market updates and business opportunities.
