MATRADE Boosts Malaysia-France Economic Ties At Paris Networking Event

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 9 (Bernama) -- The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), through its Paris office, hosted the Malaysia Breakfast Business Networking Event in Paris to deepen French public and private sector understanding of Malaysia’s economic landscape.

In a statement, MATRADE said the event, organised in partnership with Business France, aimed to strengthen economic ties between Malaysia and France while showcasing Malaysia’s vibrant business environment and commitment to sustainability.

The event also served as a prelude to Malaysia's ASEAN chairmanship in 2025, during which the country will lead efforts to enhance regional cooperation and sustainable development across Southeast Asia, MATRADE noted.

MATRADE chief executive officer Datuk Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz said as the global community increasingly looks to Southeast Asia for market diversification and supply chain solutions, Malaysia stands out with its dynamic economy, multicultural society, and commitment to sustainability.

“France, known for its leadership in innovation, high technology, and green energy, plays a pivotal role in supporting Malaysia’s transformation roadmap towards sustainability, especially in achieving the net-zero target by 2050.

“MATRADE will continue to implement action plans guided by the National Trade Blueprint to support our nation’s socio-economic progression,” he said.

Meanwhile, MATRADE Paris trade commissioner Zuhaila Sedek said the French business communities have expressed the need for greater awareness of Malaysia, and this initiative directly addressed French business industry leaders.

“Following the expansion of MATRADE Paris earlier this year, we have been able to organise various networking and promotional programmes to enhance Malaysia’s country branding here in Paris,” said Zuhaila.

MATRADE also highlighted that France remains one of Malaysia’s top 10 trading partners within the European Union (EU), reflecting the growing significance of bilateral trade.

According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia, in July 2024, trade with the EU accounted for 7.7 per cent of Malaysia’s total trade, rising 17.5 per cent year-on-year to RM19.81 billion.

-- BERNAMA