Malaysia is an upper middle-income economy with a population of over 32 million. The country’s growing affluent middle class is increasingly driving consumer and business demand for quality products and services. U.S. products and brands are favorably viewed and enjoy a strong presence in many sectors, including technology, machinery, electronics, medical equipment, and franchising. The United States is Malaysia’s third-largest trading partner, and U.S. exports of goods to Malaysia were valued at over $15.7 billion in 2021.

U.S. exporters looking to expand their market presence in Malaysia can benefit from the country’s developed infrastructure, an English-speaking business and consumer environment, a well-established legal framework, and the ability to repatriate capital and profits. Malaysia is generally considered an easy and cost-competitive market for doing business and was ranked 12th globally on the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business 2021 Report.

The government of Malaysia has made substantial advances in its fight against COVID-19, encouraging the population of Malaysia to get vaccinated. According to the Ministry of Health Malaysia, over 84% of all adults have had a second vaccine dose. As of April 2022, Malaysia is fully open to international visitors.
 

Political & Economic Environment:  State Department’s website for background on the country’s political environment.