KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysia External Trade Development Corp (MATRADE) is stepping up efforts to strengthen bilateral trade between Malaysia and Uzbekistan, positioning the Central Asian nation as a strategic gateway to the broader regional market.

MATRADE deputy chief executive officer S Jai Shankar said high-level engagements between both countries have established a solid foundation for deeper economic cooperation.

He noted that bilateral trade has demonstrated encouraging growth momentum, rising by 26.4 per cent in 2025 to about US$100 million (US$1=RM4.01), up from US$80 million recorded in 2024.

"These are some trade numbers that will be interesting for you.

"Currently, growth has been good, but is it good enough? That is the question we are raising today. We are here to explore new opportunities to further expand trade,” he said at the Uzbekistan-Malaysia Business and Tourism Cooperation Forum here today.

Jai Shankar added that Malaysia’s exports to Uzbekistan have also strengthened, increasing 27 per cent to US$109 million, underscoring growing demand and market potential.

Furthermore, he described Uzbekistan as a key partner for Malaysia in accessing the broader Central Asian region.