SHANGHAI – Sarawak is aiming to broaden its export presence in China as five of its companies showcase their products at the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) and MIHAS Shanghai 2025, held at the National Exhibition and Convention Center.
The Malaysia Pavilion, inaugurated by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi alongside Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, represents Malaysia’s most extensive participation at the expo to date.
Covering more than 200,000 square metres, the pavilion features over 250 Malaysian businesses, highlighting the country’s ambition to strengthen trade ties with China.
Sarawak’s delegation includes SPL Food Industries (gula apong), Iana Corporation (kek lapis), Joyees Trading (pepper), Nationfood (tempe chips), and PPES Ternak (canned corned beef). These products have attracted considerable interest from Chinese buyers, who are keen on distinctive and authentic offerings from Borneo.
Malaysia’s participation comes at a time of growing bilateral engagement. In 2023, Malaysia-China trade reached USD 106.06 billion, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
China has remained Malaysia’s largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years. By late 2024, Malaysia-China trade had already matched the previous year’s total, signalling strong recovery and continued growth.
Sarawak’s trade with China alone amounted to RM27.3 billion in 2024, driven primarily by petroleum, palm oil, and chemical exports. Officials believe that expanding into niche food and consumer markets will help diversify the state’s export portfolio.
The Sarawak delegation was led by Deputy Minister for International Trade and Industry Datuk Dr Malcolm Mussen Lamoh, accompanied by SME advisor Dato Sri Mohd Naroden Majais, MINTRED permanent secretary Dzulkornain Masron, and Invest Sarawak CEO Timothy One, among other senior representatives.
They expressed optimism that Sarawak’s participation at CIIE would pave the way for new export opportunities and reinforce economic ties with China, the world’s second-largest economy.
Officials also encouraged more small and medium enterprises to take advantage of platforms such as MIHAS, which provide access to international buyers and help position Sarawak products in global markets.
The expo, which runs from 5 to 10 November 2025, has drawn over 4,000 exhibitors from 155 countries and regions. With its theme “New Era, Shared Future,” the event underscores China’s commitment to trade liberalisation and international cooperation.
For Sarawak, the occasion offers a timely opportunity to showcase its products and strengthen its role in the expanding Malaysia-China partnership.
