In 2024, the total trade between Malaysia and Bahrain reached RM1.19 billion (US$260 million), decreasing from RM1.5 billion (US$330 million) in 2023.
Malaysia’s exports to Bahrain surged by 17.4% to RM251.2 million (US$54.8 million), up from RM214 million (US$46.9 million) in 2023. This growth was primarily driven by a rise in the export of transport equipment, as reported by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE).
In 2023, Malaysia’s imports from Bahrain totaled RM934.3 million (US$205.6 million), a decrease from RM1.28 billion (US$279.7 million) the previous year, driven by a rise in Malaysia’s metal product imports.
Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry, expressed that Malaysia has significant potential to enhance trade and investment relations with Bahrain.
“We believe a stronger partnership with Bahrain offers mutual benefits, unlocking new opportunities for businesses in both our nations, for example in sectors like Islamic finance as well as palm oil and palm oil-based products. We are eager to explore collaborative ventures that drive growth and prosperity for Bahrain and Malaysia,” he told Bernama.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is set to embark on an official visit to Bahrain tonight, ushering in a new era for Malaysia-Bahrain diplomatic relations.
Anwar will make his inaugural visit to the country as prime minister, following an invitation from Bahrain’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa. During his visit, he will engage in a courtesy meeting with his Bahraini counterpart to discuss advancements in Malaysia-Bahrain relations. Topics on the agenda include trade and investment, defense, food security, Islamic banking, the halal industry, connectivity, and tourism, along with regional and global issues of mutual interest.
During Malaysia’s tenure as ASEAN chair, Anwar intends to invite Bahrain’s crown prince to participate in the forthcoming ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit and the ASEAN-GCC+ China Summit, both set to occur in Malaysia.
The Prime Minister is scheduled to meet with Bahrain’s King, Raja Hamad Isa Al Khalifa, marking a significant honor for Malaysia and underscoring the strong bilateral relations between the nations. Additionally, Finance Minister Anwar will engage with his Bahraini counterpart, Shaikh Salman Khalifa Al Khalifa, to explore opportunities for economic collaboration.
