Procurement, sourcing and import from Malaysia

Purchasing products or services seems easy, but this is not always the case. How do you know that you have the best deal, especially if you haven’t done much business before in Malaysia?

It already helps if you have a structured approach for your procurement and to keep your options open. Working with a local consultant or agency may help to identify more potential suppliers and to get the products that you just bought accross the border to their destination.

Find the right suppliers in Malaysia

Malaysia, located in Southeast Asia, exports a diverse range of products that showcase its natural resources and industrial capabilities. The country is known for exporting electronics and electrical products, including semiconductors and consumer electronics, which are crucial for its manufacturing sector. Malaysia also exports palm oil, rubber, and timber products, leveraging its abundant natural resources.

Wages in Malaysia vary across different industries and regions. Generally, wages are lower compared to many developed countries, which helps maintain competitive production costs. The cost of living in major cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang can be moderate, depending on lifestyle choices and location.

Malaysia is also known for its strong agricultural sector, exporting products like palm oil, rubber, and tropical fruits such as durian and pineapple. The country has a growing presence in the renewable energy sector, particularly in solar photovoltaic manufacturing and technology, and is increasingly exporting related products and services.

Shipping your products

If you purchase tangible products, you have to ship them out of the country. Depending on the country where you want these goods, this may have implications.

First of all you may have to pay import duties or settle VAT. There are certain thresholds for both of these charges, e.g. while importing in the EU you don’t have to pay import duties on any shipment worth less than € 150.

There may also be non-financial barriers, like certifications or approvals to be obtained. Especially for food, cosmetics or medicine this may be the case. Check this in advance, even before you invest in your marketing.

VAlidate the HS-codes you use for shipping

Almost every country or trade block in the world has its own detailing on the international HS-code list. With our report you strongly reduce the risk on misclassifications, delays and higher custom duties than expected.

Tell us what you want to ship and where to and we ask you all relevant questions to get to the most likely code.

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A structured sourcing approach in Malaysia

Step 1

Supplier search

Try to identify in total 6 to 10 possible suppliers and check their websites. Approach them with a general request to see whether they have the products or services you need.

Step 2

Supplier selection

Submit your requirements to a group of three to five selected suppliers and ensure you get the right comparable quotations to make a choice. Negotiate with one or two of them to get the best result.

Step 3

Supplier management

Now start collaborating, making sure you have an efficient ordering process and limited risks where it comes to quality control and shipping the products.