The Madani Digital Trade (MDT) initiative is expected to be a game changer, enabling SMEs to benefit from technologies such as big data and analytics, cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI), said Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz. MDT was launched today by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade), in collaboration with Nazsoft Tech Sdn Bhd and with the support of the Customs Department. It serves as an integrated virtual showcase to help Malaysian exporters expand their reach in global markets. Tengku Zafrul said based on its ability to integrate cross-border ecosystem stakeholders, the MDT platform facilitates export promotion and enhances the visibility of Malaysian brands in regional and international markets. He added that Malaysian companies could intensify their export ventures in the international markets using state-of-the-art digital platforms for virtual exhibition booths, business meetings and business matching, facilitated for both buyers and sellers. "Businesses will also have access to comprehensive training programmes and advisory services, webinars and grant application systems to equip themselves with the necessary tools to navigate the platform effectively. "Similar to digital facilitation in advanced countries, we are confident this initiative will help address the digital gap which is a big challenge to Malaysian companies," he said at the launch of here today. Tengku Zafrul said while digital empowerment of SMEs is crucial, strengthening the regulatory framework to expand market access for exporters is equally important, adding that ensuring access through free trade agreements and other strategic frameworks remains a key priority. He said as Malaysia assumes the Asean chairmanship this year, his ministry is committed to driving meaningful progress on the priority economic deliverables (PEDs) for 2025. He noted that key PEDs include progress on the Asean Trade in Goods Agreement, and FTAs with China and India. He added that the Asean Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) is also a major priority to drive regional digital integration. "The DEFA negotiation covers various key elements such as digital trade, cross-border e-commerce, cybersecurity, digital ID, digital payments, cross- border data flows and emerging topics. "The goal is to conclude the negotiations by year-end and develop a comprehensive implementation plan post-2025. "The DEFA is expected to add up to US$2 trillion to the regional digital economy by 2030, ultimately contributing to Asean's position as the world's fourth largest economy globally within the same timeline," he said. Tengku Zafrul said SMEs that fully embrace digital can easily tap into the consumer demand across Asean, where the potential is huge. Digitally enabled Malaysian and Asean SMEs, he said, can easily serve markets as far as Latin America or even Africa. "If more Malaysian SMEs could participate in the global value chain through the MDT, they would create more jobs which, in turn, would directly support Malaysia's development," he added. MDT offers business matching functions, an e-marketplace, market intelligence on grants, training, market access and trade-related business solutions. The Customs Department supports the platform by providing access to its services on the platform, using automation, AI, and data analytics to streamline trade facilitation and customs processes. Key features of the MDT platform include a virtual engagement platform, an e-marketplace and market aggregator, as well as a member portal and digital trade hub. (ICE KUALA LUMPUR)

Fonte notizia: 19 marzo 2025, Kuala Lumpur