Kuala Lumpur, 27 January 2026 – Bilateral trade between Malaysia and the United States continues to demonstrate strong resilience in the face of global economic uncertainty, according to outgoing US Ambassador to Malaysia Edgard D. Kagan, underscoring the robust nature of economic ties between the two nations.
Speaking at his farewell reception, where he also launched the Freedom 250 Road Show, a year-long celebration leading up to the United States’ 250th anniversary in 2026, Ambassador Kagan highlighted sustained growth in bilateral commerce as a sign of the enduring partnership between the world’s largest economy and Southeast Asia’s diversified export hub.
Kagan noted that over the past 11 years, Malaysian exports to the United States have increased by about 14%, while US exports to Malaysia have risen by roughly 7.5% over the same period, reflecting a deepening economic relationship that has withstood external pressures and global market headwinds.
“The trade relationship is strong,” Kagan said, emphasising that the growth is testament to the structural resilience and mutual benefits of bilateral commerce when viewed objectively, beyond political discourse.
Beyond goods trade, the ambassador also pointed to education exchange initiatives as a key area of long-term engagement. He cited efforts to promote Malaysia as a study destination for American students, a multi-year endeavour he hopes will continue to yield results under future leadership at the US Embassy.
As he prepares to conclude 35 years of US government service and return to the United States to join a think tank focused on the Indo-Pacific region, Kagan reflected warmly on his time in Malaysia. He praised the nation’s diversity, dynamism and hospitality, saying both he and his family had cherished their experience in the country.
Kagan’s remarks come against a backdrop of evolving US-Malaysia economic engagement. Malaysia has been among the United States’ significant trading partners in Asia, with sustained integration into Western supply chains across sectors such as electronics and machinery, a trend that analysts see as supporting Malaysia’s export momentum despite global headwinds.
Looking ahead, continued dialogue and cooperation on trade, education and people-to-people exchanges are expected to shape the next chapter of US-Malaysia relations as both nations pursue shared economic interests in a rapidly changing global landscape.
