MELAKA (July 2): The Melaka state government aims to register 400 exporting companies with the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) to enhance productivity and profitability.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh disclosed that as of last June, a total of 268 companies in Melaka, out of 13,018 companies nationwide had registered with Matrade.

"I anticipate that Melaka Export Day 2024 over two days will significantly boost registrations, particularly among micro, small and medium enterprises. The state government remains committed to attracting investors to bolster the state's export value.

"Simultaneously, exporting entrepreneurs must leverage Matrade's benefits to implement effective strategies and enhance company profitability," he said.

He made these remarks at a press conference following the inauguration of Export Day 2024 at the Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC) Ayer Keroh. The event was also attended by Matrade chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican.

Ab Rauf said the state government remains committed to developing and guiding export entrepreneurs into international and domestic markets to bolster Malaysia's economy, particularly in Melaka.

Highlighting Melaka's strategic location between Johor and Selangor, he noted significant advantages for investors, especially those leveraging southern ports such as Port of Tanjong Pelepas or Klang Port.

He said this strategic positioning has increased investment value in Melaka, yielding positive returns, with trade amounting to RM32.29 billion in 2023. From April, trade through Melaka's gates saw a 24.4% increase compared with the previous year.

"While Melaka's 2023 total exports decreased by 5.4% to RM12.03 billion from RM12.72 billion in 2022, I am confident that promotional initiatives like Export Day will stimulate export value growth, given our substantial potential in key industries," he said.

Meanwhile, Reezal Merican said that Matrade aims to achieve RM1.6 trillion in exports by the end of 2024, following last year's achievement of RM1.427 trillion.

"From January to May this year, exports have increased to RM606 billion and are expected to continue rising. We are confident after achieving the RM1 trillion mark for three consecutive years, and even surpassing the 12th Malaysia Plan's RM1.5 trillion target by 2022," he added.

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