Qatar-Malaysia trade relations have entered a new phase with an 80% increase in trade volume over the past year. The boost came as leaders from both nations met at the ASEAN-GCC-China Economic Forum held in Kuala Lumpur.
To begin with, Qatar Chamber participated actively in the forum, which gathered delegates from Southeast Asia, the Gulf, and China. The delegation was led by the Second Vice Chairman of Qatar Chamber, accompanied by board members Ali bin Abdul Latif Al-Misnad and Nasser bin Suleiman Al-Haidar.
During the forum, working sessions focused on several high-impact topics. These included investment opportunities across ASEAN and GCC countries, the role of artificial intelligence in economic development, and boosting investments between ASEAN, GCC, and China. The sessions also explored strategic growth in energy and logistics.
Additionally, the Qatari delegation held multiple bilateral meetings. In one session, they met the Minister of Finance and Economy of Brunei to discuss enhancing cooperation. The talks explored future agreements between the Qatari and Brunei chambers of commerce.
In another key meeting, they sat down with Malaysia’s Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry. The discussion centered on expanding Qatar-Malaysia trade relations and creating more investment opportunities.
In media remarks, the Second Vice Chairman underlined the private sector’s growing interest in ASEAN markets. He also noted that ASEAN’s location and economic momentum make it an attractive region for Gulf investors. With a population of around 690 million and strategic access to global trade routes, ASEAN holds massive potential.
Notably, trade between Qatar and Malaysia reached QR5.2 billion in 2024. This is a sharp increase from QR2.9 billion in 2023, reflecting an 80% growth. However, Malaysia has become one of Qatar’s key trade partners in Southeast Asia.
Furthermore, business leaders in ASEAN and China were invited to explore Qatar’s investment environment. The delegation encouraged them to benefit from Qatar’s business incentives and to form alliances with local firms.
Overall, Qatar-Malaysia trade relations are gaining momentum through diplomatic engagement and strategic cooperation. This growth signals a strong future for economic ties between the two nations.
