Malaysia-US Trade: Major Exports from Malaysia to the USA

In recent years, the trade relationship between Malaysia and the United States has been steadily growing. Malaysia has become an important trading partner for the US, with a wide range of goods being exported from Malaysia to the US. According to the US import data and Malaysia export data, the total value of Malaysia exports to the US reached $43.51 billion in 2024, an increase of 12% from the previous year. The US goods trade with Malaysia reached a total value of around $80.2 billion in 2024, as per the data on Malaysia trade with US and Malaysia-US trade data. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the major exports from Malaysia to the USA.

Overview of Malaysia-US Trade

Malaysia and the United States have a long-standing trade relationship that dates back several decades. The two countries have been engaging in bilateral trade agreements that have facilitated the smooth flow of goods and services between them. The US is one of Malaysia's largest trading partners, and both countries have been able to capitalize on each other's strengths to boost their respective economies. In 2024, Malaysia's trade with the US, which has been Malaysia's third-largest trading partner since 2015, saw a rebound of 29.9%, reaching RM324.91 billion in comparison to 2023. 

With trade accounting for 11.3% of Malaysia's total trade, it underscores the country's significant role in the nation's trade performance and economic development. In 2024, Malaysia's exports to the US reached a new record high, with a double-digit growth of 23.2% to RM198.65 billion or $43.5 billion, driven by strong exports of electronic products, machinery equipment, and rubber products. 

What Does the US Import from Malaysia? Major Exports from Malaysia to the USA

The United States imports various goods from Malaysia, with major exports including electronics, machinery, and medical devices. Malaysian products are known for their quality and competitive prices, making them popular among American consumers and businesses. The top 10 goods that the US imports from Malaysia, and the major exports from Malaysia to USA, as per the US shipment data and Malaysia customs export data for 2024, include:

1. Electrical machinery and equipment (HS code 85): $23.72 billion

Electrical machinery and equipment are the biggest Malaysia export to US, with a value of $23.72 billion in 2024, as per the data on US imports from Malaysia. This category includes items such as computers, telecommunication equipment, and electrical parts.

2. Nuclear reactors and machinery (HS code 84): $6.31 billion

Nuclear reactors and machinery rank second on the list of exports from Malaysia to the USA, with a total value of $6.31 billion. These products are essential in various industries, including energy production and manufacturing.

3. Optical, medical, & surgical instruments (HS code 90): $3.89 billion

Optical, medical, and surgical instruments are another significant export from Malaysia to US, with a value of $3.89 billion. These products play a crucial role in the healthcare sector, aiding in diagnostics and treatment.

4. Rubber and articles thereof (HS code 40): $1.68 billion

Rubber and articles made from rubber are also popular exports from Malaysia to the USA, totaling $1.68 billion, as per the data on US imports from Malaysia. Malaysia is known for its rubber production, and these products are used in various industries, including automotive and construction.

5. Furniture, bedding, and mattresses (HS code 94): $1.55 billion

Furniture, bedding, and mattresses are in high demand in the USA, making them valuable exports from Malaysia with a total value of $1.55 billion. Malaysian-made furniture is known for its quality and craftsmanship.

6. Animal or vegetable fats and oils (HS code 15): $601.18 million

Animal or vegetable fats and oils are essential ingredients in cooking and manufacturing, with a total export value of $601.18 million from Malaysia to the USA in 2024. These products are used in a wide range of applications, from food production to skincare.

7. Plastics and articles thereof (HS code 39): $573 million

Plastics and articles made from plastic are also significant exports from Malaysia to the USA, with a total value of $573 million. These products play a crucial role in various industries, including packaging, construction, and automotive.

8. Articles of iron or steel (HS code 73): $454.69 million

Articles made of iron or steel are valuable exports from Malaysia to the USA, with a total value of $454.69 million. These products are used in construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure projects.

9. Iron and steel (HS code 72): $451.36 million

Iron and steel products are also popular exports from Malaysia to the USA, with a total value of $451.36 million. These materials are essential in various industries, from construction to automotive manufacturing.

10. Aluminum and articles thereof (HS code 76): $360.40 million

Lastly, aluminum and articles made from aluminum are valuable exports from Malaysia to the USA, totaling $360.40 million. Aluminum is a versatile material used in various industries, including aerospace, construction, and transportation databases as well.

Malaysia Exports to the US in the Last 10 Years: Yearly US-Malaysia Bilateral Trade Data

Major Malaysian Exports to the USA (2024)

USA-Malaysia Trade Snapshot (2024-25)

Top U.S. Importers of Malaysian Goods (2024-25)

Based on industry presence and trade patterns, several major U.S.-based multinational corporations are known to have significant import activities involving Malaysian goods, particularly in sectors such as electronics, semiconductors, and medical devices. The top 10 US importers that import goods from Malaysia, as per the US import shipment data on US imports, based on their approximate import values in 2024, include: 

• Apple Inc. – approx. $4.6 billion

• Intel Corporation – approx. $4.2 billion

• Dell Technologies – approx. $3.9 billion

• Texas Instruments – approx. $3.2 billion

• Hewlett-Packard (HP Inc.) – approx. $2.8 billion

• Medtronic – approx. $2.1 billion

• Boston Scientific – approx. $1.7 billion

• General Electric (GE) – approx. $1.5 billion

• Johnson & Johnson – approx. $1.3 billion

• Procter & Gamble (P&G) – approx. $1.2 billion

US-Malaysia Trade Trends and Key Developments

• 2024 Surge: Exports to the USA reached a record high in 2024, driven by robust demand for E&E products and machinery.

• 2023 Decline: A 3.5% decline in exports was observed in 2023, attributed to reduced shipments of wood, rubber, and steel products.

• Tariff Impacts: The imposition of a 24% tariff on most Malaysian exports, excluding semiconductors and certain electronics, posed challenges in 2025.

• Preemptive Export Surge: In anticipation of the impending 24% U.S. tariff, Malaysian exports to the U.S. saw a significant increase in Q1 2025, particularly in E&E products. March exports reached a record 22.66 billion ringgit ($5.4 billion).

• Economic Growth Slowdown: Malaysia's GDP growth decelerated to 4.5% year-on-year in Q1 2025, down from 5% in the previous quarter, influenced by softer household consumption and declining exports amid global trade tensions.

• 90-Day Tariff Pause: A temporary suspension of the 24% tariff was implemented from April 9 to July 8, 2025, reverting to a baseline 10% tariff during this period.

US-Malaysia Trade Relations & Free Trade Agreements

• Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA): Established in 2004, TIFA serves as the primary platform for trade discussions between Malaysia and the USA.

• Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Negotiations: Initiated in 2006, FTA talks have been on hold since 2008 due to unresolved issues in areas like financial services and intellectual property.

Malaysia-US Export and Shipment Data

• Monthly Export Figures: In January 2025, Malaysia's exports to the USA were valued at approximately USD 3.87 billion, a decrease from USD 4.25 billion in December 2024.

• Top Export Sectors: E&E products, machinery, and rubber goods continue to dominate Malaysia's export portfolio to the USA.

US Tariffs and Their Impacts on Malaysia

• Tariff Rates: A 24% tariff was imposed on most Malaysian exports to the USA, with exceptions for semiconductors and select electronics.

• Tariff Implementation: The U.S. announced a 24% tariff on Malaysian exports, effective July 2025, excluding semiconductors and certain electronics. This move is part of a broader "reciprocal" tariffs targeting multiple countries.

• Solar Panel Tariffs: The U.S. plans to impose tariffs as high as 3,521% on solar panels imported from Southeast Asian countries, including Malaysia, following investigations into unfair trade practices. 

• Semiconductor Industry Concerns: Malaysia, accounting for about 13% of global chip testing and packaging, warns that U.S. tariffs could disrupt the semiconductor supply chain, affecting both nations.

• Economic Impact: The tariffs have potential implications for Malaysia's economic growth, prompting the central bank to implement measures to mitigate adverse effects. 

• SME Relief Measures: In response to the tariffs, Malaysia introduced a $356 million relief package aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises.

Strategic Considerations

• Diversification Efforts: Malaysia is exploring opportunities to diversify its export markets and reduce reliance on the USA.

• Negotiation Initiatives: Efforts are underway to negotiate more favorable trade terms with the USA to alleviate tariff burdens.

• Regional Collaboration: Malaysia is engaging with ASEAN partners to coordinate responses to global trade challenges and enhance regional economic resilience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Malaysia-US trade has been flourishing, with Malaysia exporting a diverse range of products to the US market. From electronics and electrical equipment to palm oil and rubber products, Malaysia has established itself as a reliable and trusted supplier of various goods to the US. The strong trade relationship between Malaysia and the US continues to benefit both countries, driving economic growth and creating opportunities for businesses on both sides.

We hope that you liked our informative blog report on US-Malaysia trade. To know more about the latest developments in the US trade trends and US import-export data, visit USImportdata. Contact us at info@tradeimex.in to get the latest customized database reports on the US trade data and the top US importers.