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By Lukman Olabiyi
Malaysia’s exports to Nigeria increased by 20.7 per cent in 2025, reaching $664 million.
This signals a stronger trade relations and deepening economic cooperation between both countries.
Malaysia’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Aiyub Omar, disclosed this in a statement, noting that the growth was driven largely by increased shipments of palm oil and related agricultural products, which rose by 33.7 per cent.
He added that exports of transport equipment recorded a sharp increase of 1,260 per cent, while machinery, equipment and parts grew by 44.8 per cent. Processed food exports also expanded by 28.1 per cent.
On imports, Omar said Malaysia’s purchases from Nigeria were dominated by agricultural products, which accounted for 54.7 per cent. Petroleum products followed at 22.9 per cent, while metalliferous ores and metal scrap contributed 10.3 per cent. Crude petroleum made up 4.3 per cent.
Overall, total bilateral trade between the two countries stood at $1.23 billion in 2025, making Nigeria Malaysia’s fourth-largest trading partner in Africa and 43rd globally.
Omar described the steady growth as a strong foundation for expanding strategic and economic ties, noting that Malaysian firms are increasingly contributing technical expertise and services in key sectors identified by the Nigerian government.
He said Malaysian companies are actively supporting the development of Nigeria’s palm oil industry through initiatives such as Build-Operate-Transfer arrangements, plantation management, infrastructure development and technology transfer. Currently, Malaysian firms are involved in developing about 151,800 hectares of oil palm plantations across the country.
The envoy also identified the Halal industry as a major area for future collaboration, in line with Nigeria’s efforts to build a national Halal ecosystem. Malaysia’s global Halal exports were valued at $13.43 billion in 2024 and are projected to reach $18.98 billion by 2030.
To boost trade and investment, Malaysia will host the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) from September 23 to 26, 2026. The 2025 edition of the event attracted participants from 80 countries, facilitated over 4,000 business meetings and generated $1.53 billion in sales.
Meanwhile, Counsellor (Trade) at MATRADE Lagos, Jude Bryan Dass, said interest among Nigerian businesses in the upcoming MIHAS 2026 is increasing. He noted that eight Nigerian buyers and 21 from West Africa attended the 2025 edition, with expectations of higher participation this year.
Dass also highlighted healthcare services, particularly medical tourism, as another key area of collaboration. Nigerians are estimated to spend between $1.5 billion and $3 billion annually on medical tourism, with popular destinations including India, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom.
He, however, noted that Malaysia offers competitive, high-quality healthcare services, supported by 194 private hospitals and over 17,800 beds, with expertise in areas such as gastroenterology, surgical oncology, orthopaedics, fertility treatment and bariatric care.
Malaysia’s medical tourism industry, currently valued at $687.35 million, is projected to grow to $2 billion by 2030, positioning the country as an attractive destination for Nigerians seeking specialised medical care abroad.
