Trade relations between Malaysia and Nigeria strengthened significantly in 2025, with Malaysian exports to Nigeria climbing by 20.7 per cent to reach $664 million.
Figures released by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation indicate that the surge was largely fueled by a sharp rise in shipments of palm oil and related agricultural products, which expanded by 33.7 per cent.
The data also showed remarkable growth in other sectors, including transport equipment, which soared by 1,260 per cent. Machinery, equipment and parts rose by 44.8 per cent, while processed food exports increased by 28.1 per cent.
On the import side, Malaysia sourced a significant share of goods from Nigeria, led by agricultural products at 54.7 per cent. This was followed by petroleum products at 22.9 per cent, metalliferous ores and metal scrap at 10.3 per cent, and crude petroleum at 4.3 per cent.
Overall, trade between both nations stood at $1.23 billion in 2025, positioning Nigeria as Malaysia’s fourth-largest trading partner in Africa and 43rd globally.
Malaysia’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Aiyub Omar, said the steady expansion in trade underscores growing opportunities for broader economic and strategic collaboration.
He noted that Malaysian involvement in Nigeria extends beyond exports, with firms actively providing services and technical expertise, especially in priority areas such as palm oil development.
According to him, Malaysian companies are engaged in Build-Operate-Transfer projects, plantation management, infrastructure development, and technology transfer initiatives—efforts that align with Nigeria’s ambition to become a leading global palm oil producer.
Omar disclosed that Malaysian firms are currently participating in the development of approximately 151,800 hectares of oil palm plantations across Nigeria.
He further pointed to the halal industry as a major area of cooperation, in line with Nigeria’s push to establish a robust national halal ecosystem. Malaysia’s halal exports, he said, were valued at $13.43 billion in 2024 and are projected to rise to $18.98 billion by 2030.
The envoy also highlighted the upcoming Malaysia International Halal Showcase, scheduled for September 23 to September 26, as a strategic platform to deepen trade and investment ties.
Meanwhile, Jude Bryan Dass, Counsellor (Trade) at MATRADE Lagos, expressed optimism about increased Nigerian participation in the event in 2026.
He revealed that eight Nigerian buyers, alongside 21 participants from across West Africa, attended the 2025 edition, with expectations of stronger turnout in the coming year.
Dass also identified healthcare—particularly medical tourism—as another promising frontier for partnership. He noted that Nigerians spend between $1.5 billion and $3 billion annually seeking medical care abroad in countries such as India, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom.
He added that Malaysia presents a competitive alternative, offering quality healthcare services supported by 194 private hospitals and 17,832 hospital beds.
According to him, Malaysia’s medical tourism sector, currently valued at $687.35 million, is projected to expand to $2 billion by 2030.
