KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), remains committed in ensuring that Malaysian exporters are well-informed, agile, and prepared to navigate such challenges due to the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East which are significantly reshaping global trade routes, logistics costs, and market dynamics, presenting both challenges and new opportunities for Malaysian exporters.
A webinar on “Middle East Crisis – Market Update”, moderated by Dr. Anthony Dass, Chief Executive Officer of FSG Advisory Sdn Bhd and attended by 500 participants was held today aimed to provide a concise yet insightful overview of the current situation, supported by perspectives from MATRADE representatives on the ground, in UAE, Egypt and Kazakhstan. Industry representatives from Mid-Tier Companies, namely Callum Chen, Chief Executive Officer, LH Plus Sdn Bhd, Sharifah Zaida Nurlisha Syed Ibrahim, Chief Executive Officer, MMC Oil and Gas Engineering Sdn Bhd and Dereck Ng, Group Chief Executive Officer, Mine Logistics Sdn Bhd also shared their perspectives and practical experiences which further complemented the discussion, particularly in navigating uncertainties and sustaining business continuity.
The panel of speakers are urging Malaysian exporters to adopt a proactive and adaptive approach to navigate the evolving landscape with some recommended strategies which include diversifying markets beyond traditional destinations into ASEAN, Central Asia, South Asia, and Africa; adjusting shipment terms to mitigate risk exposure; strengthening buyer verification to ensure reliability amid uncertain conditions; exploring service-based exports, including oil and gas expertise and technical services; leveraging on digitalisation and AI to improve operational efficiency and cost control.
While the duration of the conflict remains uncertain, buyers and importers in the affected regions are becoming more price-sensitive, with some renegotiating contracts or postponing orders. Exporters dealing in lower-margin, high-volume goods are especially vulnerable under these conditions. Thus, exporters need to adapt, with new routes, partnerships, and market dynamics emerging in the process. Encouragingly, logistics providers note that while costs are rising, the situation so far remains manageable.
Despite the challenges, Malaysia is well-positioned to strengthen its role as a reliable and strategic suppliers in global markets. Opportunities continue to exist across key corridors where demand remains present, albeit uneven. Companies that stay close to market developments, maintain engagement with buyers and position themselves along credible value segments can still secure footholds.
As quoted by Abu Bakar Yusof, Chief Executive Officer of MATRADE, “We are fully engaged with our MATRADE’s overseas network together with the industries to leverage on their insights and expertise in ensuring the business community is well informed on the situation and ways to mitigate the challenges faced during this crisis”.
The webinar also was organised as a prelude to MATRADE’s upcoming physical workshop titled “Executive Dialogue Series – Thriving in a Changing Market Landscape – Insights for Business Leaders”, where these topics will be deliberated in greater detail. Malaysian companies interested to participate in the “Executive Dialogue Series – Thriving in a Changing Market Landscape – Insights for Business Leaders” on 16 April 2026 can contact MATRADE by emailing training@matrade.gov.my or call 03-6207 7077. —MATRADE
