Many Malaysian companies are ready and are moving in line with the govt’s initiative towards sustainable development, says Jai

By TMR

MALAYSIA’S growing strength in the manufacturing of sustainable and innovative plastics takes centre stage at the K 2019 trade fair, thanks to the effort by Malaysia External Trade Development Corp (Matrade) to coordinate the participation of Malaysian companies at the event from Oct 16 to Oct 23, 2019 in Dusseldorf, Germany.

This year marks Matrade’s eighth participation in this international event. Thirty-five representatives from 12 Malaysian companies are set to showcase their high-quality and innovative products and services to over 200,000 visitors from more than 60 countries.

During the event, the Malaysian companies will be showcasing sustainable plastics, as well as chemicals and chemicals products related to the plastic and rubber sector — such as bio-resins, eco-packaging products, recycled resins, plastics packaging, natural and synthetic rubber, rubber moulding, raw materials of rubber and plastics, as well as design services.

According to Matrade director of oil and gas, chemicals and chemicals products and energy S Jai Shankar, Malaysian pavilion at K 2019 emphasises on sustainability and green elements in tandem with the global efforts to enhance sustainable development.

“Among the elements that we looked into when choosing the Malaysian delegation include integration of green elements in their operations and initiatives, including which that are related to securing certifications, product’s innovation and company policies.

“It is encouraging to note that many Malaysian companies are ready and are moving in line with the government’s initiative towards sustainable development,” he said.

Apart from facilitating participation in the trade fair, Matrade’s office in Frankfurt will also organise pre-arranged business matching sessions between the Malaysian exporters and potential buyers.

The business-matching platform serves as an effective channel for Malaysian companies to connect directly with international businesses in exploring more trade opportunities within European Union (EU) and other regions.

“Matrade as Malaysia’s trade promotion organisation has more than two decades of experience in coordinating effective business matching sessions for Malaysian companies. Therefore, we hope through K 2019, the participants are able to secure credible business leads,” Jai added.

Furthermore, Matrade has arranged for the Malaysian delegation to be involved in several business presentations and seminars related to sustainable development and circular economy.

In 2018, trade between Malaysia and EU recorded a substantial growth of 9.6% to RM218.22 billion compared to RM198.71 billion in 2017. Total exports recorded an increase of 8.2% amounted to RM111.18 billion for 2018 from RM106.91 billion in 2017.

Meanwhile, trading of chemicals and chemical products between Malaysia and EU registered an impressive growth of 22.8% to RM147.03 billion compared to RM119.58 billion in 2017. Export of chemicals and chemical products grew by 45.4% amounted to RM2.23 billion with top five products exported were chemical materials and products; binders for foundry moulds or cores; chemical products and preparations of the chemical or allied industries; organic chemicals, plastics in primary form; and inorganic chemicals.