Malaysia hits RM15.6 bln in potential trade, investment value at Expo 2025 Osaka

OSAKA, Japan (Sept 8): Malaysia has achieved approximately RM15.6 billion in potential trade and investment value at Expo 2025 Osaka, surpassing its baseline target of RM13 billion by about 20 per cent.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said the milestone underscored the strength of Malaysia’s partnerships and the global appeal of its offerings.

“Our Expo journey, which began here in 1970 under the theme ‘Progress and Harmony for Mankind’, has come full circle. As we return to Osaka, we do so not as a newcomer, but as a confident and future-ready nation with a bold vision for inclusive growth and collaboration with the world.

“We are thrilled to share that we have reached approximately 120 per cent of Malaysia’s baseline target of RM13 billion in potential trade and investment value — a milestone that reflects the strength of our partnerships and the global appeal of Malaysia’s offerings,” he added.

Fadillah’s keynote address during the Malaysia National Day celebration at the Expo was delivered on his behalf by Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.

He noted that the achievement was the result of a whole-of-government approach, with the Malaysia Pavilion serving as a hub for business and cultural engagement since its opening on April 13.

“Until the conclusion of the expo on Oct 13, we aim to host over 208 business programmes and 98 non-business activities. Our curated industry weeks shine a spotlight on strategic areas such as green energy, halal innovation, digital transformation, and advanced manufacturing,” he said.

Malaysia’s trade with Japan has also recorded strong growth in 2025.

“In the first half of 2025, our trade grew by an impressive 138.8 per cent, reaching RM70.41 billion. Exports — including processed food, electronics, and palm oil products — increased by 79.2 per cent. Imports from Japan also rose sharply, especially in jewellery and machinery,” Fadillah said.

He added that over 2,800 Japanese manufacturing projects have been completed in Malaysia to date, creating more than 340,000 jobs and contributing RM105.9 billion to the economy.

Meanwhile, the Malaysia Pavilion has so far attracted more than 2.8 million visitors, well above the initial target of 1.5 million. Its distinctive bamboo façade, inspired by interwoven songket fabric, has also earned it a nomination as the ‘Best International Gourmet Pavilion’.

“Our visitors have been consistently drawn to our vibrant cultural performances, engaging thematic business programmes, and live culinary demonstrations, particularly our famous ‘roti canai’, which has been a crowd favourite,” Fadillah said.

He stressed that Malaysia’s participation at Expo 2025 Osaka is not only about trade and investment, but also about strengthening bilateral ties with Japan and showcasing Malaysia’s diverse cultural heritage to the world.

“As the Expo nears its end in just 35 days, I invite everyone to make the most of this opportunity to connect with us and discover the charm of our pavilion,” he added.

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