KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, June 26, 2026 – Malaysian government officials have disclosed strong growth in the country’s textile trade, outlining aims for the nation to become a premier regional sourcing hub for textile manufacturers.
Officials shared this vision for Malaysia to serve as a strategic sourcing hub for Southeast Asian and South Asian textile manufacturers while addressing industry representatives and international delegations at the Apparel & Textile Exhibition Malaysia (ATEX Malaysia 2026).
The event was inaugurated on Thursday, coinciding with a period of sustained growth momentum for Malaysia’s apparel and clothing accessories sector. According to the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), the industry recorded RM18.24 billion in total trade in 2025, representing an 8.3% increase over the previous year. Exports rose 6.2% to RM6.88 billion, while exports from January to May 2026 surged by 27.8%, reflecting growing international confidence in Malaysia’s manufacturing capabilities and export competitiveness.
ATEX has reinforced Malaysia’s growing role as a regional hub for apparel and textile manufacturing, sourcing, and innovation amid evolving global supply chains, said Mr. S. Jai Shankar, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of MATRADE. “Global trade dynamics are creating new opportunities for Malaysia. International businesses are increasingly recognizing Malaysia as a strategic partner and gateway to Southeast Asia,” he said.
The MATRADE deputy chief added that Malaysia’s textile and apparel industry continues to evolve beyond traditional manufacturing by embracing automation, sustainable production, and higher-value design capabilities. “This transformation is supported by strong international partnerships and globally recognized Malaysian brands, creating greater opportunities for exporters, manufacturers, and investors.”
ATEX enables businesses to discover new suppliers, explore advanced manufacturing technologies, exchange market insights, and establish strategic partnerships that support regional supply chain development and international trade.
The 2026 edition has brought together 79 exhibiting companies from Malaysia, Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, and Japan. The opening ceremony of the event was attended by ambassadors, industry leaders, exhibitors, and buyers from across the region.
Representing one of the exhibition’s key international delegations, Mr. Manjurul Karim Khan Chowdhury, High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Malaysia, said that his country stands ready to support the organization of a Bangladesh–Malaysia Textile Forum in Kuala Lumpur. This initiative aims to make it easier for Malaysian buyers to source from Bangladesh while helping Bangladeshi businesses expand access to regional markets.
