Weekly News Updates: Feb. 15 – Feb. 28

Samsung Vietnam’s 2024 Profit Drops Despite Revenue Growth; Schneider Electric Opens Training Center in Vietnam to Boost Green Skills; Vietnam’s Enfarm Recognized at Global AI Summit for Agricultural Innovation; ASEAN Urged to Boost Regional Cooperation in Trade, Digitalization, and Sustainability; Vietnam, India, and US AI Stocks Poised for Strong Growth in 2024; Indonesia Lifts iPhone 16 Ban After Apple Agrees to Increased Investment; Alibaba to Invest $53 Billion in AI and Cloud Amid Tech Resurgence; China's DeepSeek Sparks AI Shockwave, Disrupts Global Markets; EECO and HSBC Thailand Partner to Boost Global Investment in EEC; Grab’s Economic Impact in Thailand: Contributes 1% of GDP, Creates 280,000 Jobs; Nissan Reportedly Seeks Tesla Investment Amid Turnaround Efforts; AI, Omnichannel, and D2C Reshape ASEAN Retail Market; Digital investments in Malaysia more than tripled in 2024, amid govt push into AI, advanced computing — MDEC; Malaysia Promotes ASEAN’s Digital Economy and Green Initiatives; US Policies Have Minimal Impact on Malaysia’s Semiconductor Industry Amid Strong Trade; Malaysia’s Digital Investments Hit Record High at $37 Billion in 2024; Malaysia warns US tariffs could halve trade growth as tough semiconductor restrictions loom

Samsung Vietnam’s 2024 Profit Drops Despite Revenue Growth

儘管Samsung在越南2024營收增長但利潤卻下滑

Samsung Electronics’ factories in Vietnam generated over $3.2 billion in profit in 2024, marking a decline compared to the previous year, despite increased revenue. Samsung Electronics Vietnam Thai Nguyen Co. Ltd. (SEVT), the company’s largest mobile phone factory globally, recorded nearly $22.9 billion in revenue, up 7.5% from 2023, but its profit fell by over 7% to $1.44 billion. Similarly, Samsung Electronics Vietnam in Bac Ninh reported $14.8 billion in revenue with a profit drop of nearly 8%, while Samsung Display Vietnam saw declines in both revenue and profit, with the latter plunging 26% to $584 million.

Despite these setbacks, Samsung continued to expand its investment in Vietnam, including a $1.8 billion display and electronic component project in Bac Ninh. The South Korean tech giant remains Vietnam’s largest foreign direct investor, with six factories and over $22 billion in investments. Meanwhile, Samsung Electronics HCMC CE Complex, specializing in television production, saw a 14% revenue increase but a 5.2% drop in profit to $265 million. Overall, Samsung Electronics posted $220 billion in consolidated revenue and $25.2 billion in profit in 2024, both higher than in 2023, even as Vietnam’s Ministry of Finance reported a rising trend of losses among foreign direct investment enterprises in the country.

https://tuoitrenews.vn/news/business/20250222/4-samsung-factories-in-vietnam-report-fall-in-2024-profit/84722.html

小編點評:三星電子在越南的工廠於 2024 年儘管營收增長 7.5%,但利潤仍下降。其中,SEVT 的利潤下降超過 7%,Bac Ninh工廠下降近 8%,而Samsung Display Vietnam的利潤更暴跌 26%。然而,三星仍在越南持續擴大投資,並以超過 220 億美元的投資總額,穩居該國最大外資投資者之位。

Schneider Electric Opens Training Center in Vietnam to Boost Green Skills

施耐德電機在越南成立培訓中心,推動綠色技能發展

Schneider Electric and the Schneider Electric Foundation, in collaboration with multiple agencies, have inaugurated the Center of Excellence at Ly Tu Trong College in Ho Chi Minh City. The facility is designed to train over 200 teachers and enhance skills for more than 45,000 students across Vietnam in energy and automation. Equipped with advanced technology solutions such as smart building systems, smart factories, and solar energy systems, the center aims to bridge the gap between education and industry, preparing young professionals for careers in digital transformation and energy transition.

Schneider Electric plans to support 20 vocational colleges in Vietnam, training thousands of students and teachers in electricity, automation, and renewable energy by 2030 to meet the growing demand for green human resources. Diane Le Goff, global manager of the firm’s Youth Education & Entrepreneurship CSR programs, emphasized the company’s commitment to fostering a highly skilled workforce and driving Vietnam’s sustainable economic transformation. As part of its global efforts, Schneider Electric aims to train one million young people in energy management this year.

https://tuoitrenews.vn/news/business/20250221/schneider-electric-inaugurates-center-of-excellence-as-part-of-effort-to-train-45000-vietnamese-students/84698.html

小編點評:施耐德電氣於胡志明市Ly Tu Trong College成立卓越中心,計劃為 200 多名教師提供培訓,並提升 45,000 名學生在能源與自動化領域的技能,重點關注數位轉型與綠色能源。該公司計劃在 2030 年前支持 20 所職業院校,培養數千名電力、自動化及再生能源領域的專業人才,以滿足市場對綠色技能人才日益增長的需求。

Vietnam’s Enfarm Recognized at Global AI Summit for Agricultural Innovation

越南 Enfarm 在全球 AI 高峰會上因農業創新獲表彰

Vietnamese agritech start-up Enfarm has been named one of the 50 most innovative initiatives at the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Summit in Paris, standing out as one of just four Asian projects selected from over 800 applications. Enfarm, co-founded by CEO Nguyen Do Dung and Dr. Ho Phi Long, integrates AI and IoT technology to provide farmers with high-precision soil analysis, optimizing fertilizer use, improving crop yields, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The company’s AI-driven platform has boosted coffee farm yields in Vietnam’s Central Highlands by 30% while cutting fertilizer use by the same percentage, effectively increasing farmers’ income by 1.5 times.

Dung highlighted the company’s mission to bring cutting-edge AI solutions to smallholder farmers, addressing challenges like climate change, market volatility, and inefficient resource use. He emphasized the need for greater AI adoption in Vietnam, calling for government support, AI literacy programs, and consumer backing of domestic AI products to enhance the country’s technological self-sufficiency. With its innovative approach and strong social impact, Enfarm aims to expand beyond Southeast Asia and establish itself as a global leader in AI-powered agriculture.

https://tuoitrenews.vn/news/business/20250215/vietnamese-ai-startup-honored-at-ai-summit-in-paris/84556.html

小編點評:越南農業科技新創公司 Enfarm 在巴黎 AI 行動高峰會上因其創新應用 AI 與 IoT 技術獲得表彰,該技術可優化肥料使用、提升作物產量並減少碳排放,使越南咖啡農場產量提高 30%。該公司由Nguyen Do Dung 和 Dr. Ho Phi Long共同創立,目標是拓展全球市場,並推動 AI 應用,以協助小農應對氣候變遷與市場波動等挑戰。

ASEAN Urged to Boost Regional Cooperation in Trade, Digitalization, and Sustainability

東協被敦促加強區域合作,推動貿易、數位化與永續發展

Amid growing concerns over climate change and technological competition, ASEAN nations are being called to strengthen regional cooperation in trade, digitalization, and connectivity to secure economic growth and national interests. With trade in services—spanning finance, telecom, travel, and transport—gaining momentum, ASEAN has positioned itself as a net exporter of services. The tourism sector, which accounts for over 40% of intra-regional travel, presents a key opportunity for economic resilience. Meanwhile, ASEAN’s digital economy is expected to expand from $300 billion to nearly $1 trillion by 2030, with the potential to reach $2 trillion through enhanced regional policies such as the Digital Economy Framework Agreement, which focuses on cybersecurity, data flow, and digital trade.

Infrastructure development and climate-conscious policies are also critical in sustaining ASEAN’s economic competitiveness. Regional cooperation in sustainable infrastructure—such as clean energy and low-carbon transport—aligns with commitments under the Paris Agreement, targeting net-zero emissions by 2050. Strengthening digital connectivity, streamlining supply chains, and improving cross-border logistics will further bolster economic resilience while mitigating environmental impact. As global economic fragmentation poses risks, ASEAN policymakers are urged to view regional collaboration as a public good, ensuring sustainable and inclusive growth for the bloc’s future.

https://vir.com.vn/asean-can-leverage-trade-and-digitalisation-to-foster-resilience-123286.html

小編點評:東協各國被敦促加強貿易、數位化與永續發展的區域合作,以確保經濟成長,並應對氣候變遷與科技競爭挑戰。該地區的數位經濟預計將從 3,000 億美元增長至 2030 年的近 1 兆美元,若推動《數位經濟框架協議》等政策,則有機會突破 2 兆美元。此外,基礎建設發展、氣候友善政策及強化數位連結,將是東協維持經濟競爭力與實現 2050 年淨零排放目標的關鍵。

Vietnam, India, and US AI Stocks Poised for Strong Growth in 2024

越南、印度與美國 AI 股市 2024 年成長前景看好

Vietnam and India are expected to be the top-performing Asian stock markets this year, while US artificial intelligence (AI) technology stocks could deliver up to 25% returns, according to Maybank Securities. Dan Ives, the firm’s global head of technology, predicts Nasdaq-listed AI stocks will continue their upward trajectory, driven by increasing global adoption. Apple is projected to become the first company to reach a $4 trillion market capitalization, while Nvidia and Tesla remain strong growth contenders. Despite lingering risks from US-China trade tensions, Ives suggests a portfolio with 60-70% in US stocks, 10-15% in Chinese stocks, and the remainder in alternative investments.

Maybank Securities (Thailand) also highlights Vietnam’s potential, with its stock market poised for an upgrade to the FTSE Emerging Index in September, attracting more investors. Vietnam boasts Asia’s highest profit growth rate of around 25%, significantly outpacing the MSCI ex-Japan average of 11%. However, risks include the depreciation of the dong and potential US tariff increases due to Vietnam’s trade surplus with Washington. Maybank suggests investors allocate 35% of their portfolio to global stocks—70% of which should be US stocks—while balancing with fixed income assets, Thai stocks, and alternative investments.

https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2968191/maybank-upbeat-on-us-ai-tech

小編點評:越南與印度預計將領跑 2024 年亞洲股市,而美國 AI 科技股受全球市場採用率提升的推動,預計可帶來高達 25% 的回報。馬來亞銀行證券指出,越南的企業利潤增長率為亞洲最高,並有望獲得 FTSE 新興市場指數升級資格。然而,貨幣貶值及美越貿易摩擦仍是潛在風險,因此投資者應保持平衡配置,以美國市場為核心進行資產佈局。

Indonesia Lifts iPhone 16 Ban After Apple Agrees to Increased Investment

印尼解除 iPhone 16 銷售禁令,蘋果承諾加碼投資

Indonesia and Apple Inc. have reached an agreement to lift the country’s ban on iPhone 16 sales, ending a five-month standoff over local manufacturing requirements. In exchange, Apple has pledged to invest several billion dollars in the country, including funding research and development programs and establishing new production facilities. The Ministry for Industry is expected to sign a memorandum of agreement with Apple this week, with an official permit to follow soon. The dispute began in October when Indonesia refused to grant a sales permit, but Apple’s increased investment, including plans for an AirTag production plant on Batam island and an accessories factory in Bandung, helped secure the deal.

The agreement is a political win for President Prabowo Subianto, whose administration’s tough negotiations have led to a larger foreign investment commitment from the US tech giant. While Apple has no immediate plans to manufacture iPhones in Indonesia, it has settled a previous $100 million compliance debt and will expand its Apple academies to train local talent. The move grants Apple access to Indonesia’s vast consumer market as it looks to offset declining sales in China. However, with Indonesia having backtracked on business agreements in the past, uncertainties remain over the deal’s final implementation.

https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2967728/indonesia-and-apple-said-to-agree-on-terms-to-lift-iphone-16-ban

小編點評:印尼政府解除 iPhone 16 銷售禁令,條件是蘋果承諾投資數十億美元,包含新生產設施及研發計畫,其中包括Batam的 AirTag 工廠和Bandung萬隆的配件製造廠。這項協議對總統Prabowo Subianto而言是一項重大政治成就,成功吸引蘋果擴大在印尼的外資承諾。然而,由於印尼過去曾在商業協議上出現變數,該交易的最終執行仍有待觀察。

Alibaba to Invest $53 Billion in AI and Cloud Amid Tech Resurgence

阿里巴巴計劃投資 530 億美元 推動 AI 與雲端技術發展

Chinese tech giant Alibaba has announced plans to invest at least 380 billion yuan ($53 billion) in artificial intelligence and cloud computing over the next three years, marking its largest investment in the sector to date. The move underscores the company’s commitment to AI-driven growth and long-term technological innovation, following years of regulatory scrutiny that had dampened investor confidence. The announcement comes on the heels of Alibaba’s strong quarterly earnings report, which saw an 8% revenue increase to 280 billion yuan, sparking a 14% surge in its Hong Kong-listed shares.

The investment also follows Alibaba co-founder Jack Ma’s recent appearance at a high-profile meeting with President Xi Jinping, signaling potential government support for the private sector. The tech industry in China has been experiencing a resurgence, bolstered by new AI advancements, including the launch of a chatbot by Chinese startup DeepSeek. As Beijing seeks to revive economic growth amid sluggish consumption and property market concerns, Alibaba’s renewed focus on AI and cloud computing is seen as a strategic move to reclaim its dominance in the tech sector.

https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2966943/chinas-alibaba-to-invest-50bn-in-ai-cloud-computing

小編點評阿里巴巴計劃在未來三年內投資 530 億美元 於 AI 與雲端運算,這是該公司歷來在此領域的最大規模投資,顯示其在歷經監管挑戰後,正積極尋求長期增長。此計畫發表之際,阿里巴巴公布亮眼財報,並伴隨馬雲與習近平的會面,釋放出政府可能支持科技產業復甦的信號。

China’s DeepSeek Sparks AI Shockwave, Disrupts Global Markets

中國 DeepSeek 掀起 AI 震撼波 衝擊全球市場

In a groundbreaking moment reminiscent of the 1957 Sputnik launch, Chinese AI startup DeepSeek stunned the global tech industry by unveiling a powerful chatbot at a fraction of the cost of US-developed models. The revelation triggered a market upheaval, with shares of chip giant Nvidia plunging 17%, erasing nearly $600 billion in market value—the largest single-day loss for a public company. Meanwhile, some of Nvidia’s key customers saw modest gains. The unexpected development underscores China’s growing AI capabilities, raising concerns about the competitive landscape and geopolitical implications.

The US responded swiftly, announcing broad-based tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, signaling potential economic tensions ahead. Newly appointed Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent downplayed the move, calling tariffs a negotiating tool rather than a lasting policy shift. Investors, already bracing for heightened volatility in 2025, are urged to diversify beyond large-cap IT stocks, as cyclical sectors like industrials, financials, and mid-cap equities gain traction. While DeepSeek’s true impact remains to be seen, its emergence reinforces the rapid pace of technological advancement and the vulnerability of even the most dominant tech firms.

https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2968336/tariffs-and-the-ai-sputnik-moment

小編點評:中國 AI 新創公司 DeepSeek 以低成本技術顛覆市場,推出全新聊天機器人,導致 輝達股價單日重挫 17%,市值蒸發 6,000 億美元。該事件突顯中國 AI 實力增強,並促使美國迅速推出新一輪關稅政策,顯示 經濟緊張局勢升溫。投資者則被建議 降低對大型 IT 企業的依賴,轉向工業、金融等週期性板塊,以應對市場波動。

EECO and HSBC Thailand Partner to Boost Global Investment in EEC

泰國 EECO 與 HSBC 合作 吸引全球投資進駐東部經濟走廊

The Eastern Economic Corridor Office of Thailand (EECO) has signed a strategic partnership with HSBC Thailand to attract foreign direct investment into Thailand’s high-value industries, targeting THB500 billion over the next five years. The agreement grants EECO access to HSBC’s vast international network, spanning 58 markets, and aims to strengthen investment opportunities from key economic corridors such as China, Europe, ASEAN, and Japan. HSBC will support EECO’s investment promotion roadshows in 2025, focusing on sectors like next-generation automotive, digital technology, aerospace, and bio-circular-green industries. EECO Secretary-General Chula Sukmanop emphasized that foreign investment is crucial for Thailand’s economic growth and that HSBC’s global expertise will enhance the EEC’s competitiveness as a regional investment hub.

HSBC Thailand CEO Giorgio Gamba reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to facilitating foreign investment, highlighting Thailand’s strategic location and strong manufacturing ecosystem. In 2024, Thailand saw THB727 billion in FDI approvals, the highest in two decades, with the EEC accounting for 78% of the total. The surge in investment, particularly in smart electronics and electric vehicle production, underscores the EEC’s role in global supply chains. The MoU signing was followed by a business seminar attended by over 50 leaders from multinational corporations, embassies, and chambers of commerce, further reinforcing Thailand’s position as a premier investment destination in Southeast Asia.

https://www.nationthailand.com/business/economy/40046830

小編點評:泰國 EECO 與滙豐銀行 攜手合作,未來五年內將吸引 5,000 億泰銖的外資,聚焦 汽車、數位技術、航空航太及生物循環綠色產業。此合作充分利用滙豐銀行的全球網絡,助力泰國成為 區域投資中心。2024 年泰國 FDI 核准額達 7270 億泰銖,創 20 年新高,其中 EEC 占比高達 78%,顯示其在全球供應鏈中的關鍵角色。

Grab’s Economic Impact in Thailand: Contributes 1% of GDP, Creates 280,000 Jobs

叫車與外送平台Grab 對泰國經濟影響:貢獻 1% GDP 創造 28 萬個就業機會

A new study by the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI) has revealed that ride-hailing and delivery platform Grab contributed approximately 1% of Thailand’s GDP in 2023, generating 179 billion baht in economic activity. The study found that Grab’s operations created over 280,000 new jobs and boosted household income by 24 billion baht. TDRI research fellow Nonarit Bisonyabut emphasized that digital platforms like Grab have a widespread economic impact, influencing sectors such as tourism, automotive, energy, and retail. However, experts warn that the rapid rise of the gig economy, particularly among younger workers, may lead to significant shifts in traditional employment structures.

The study also addressed regulatory challenges and the need for government intervention to support gig workers and small businesses. Associate Professor Dr. Danuvas Sagarik from NIDA stressed the importance of upskilling and reskilling programs to help workers adapt to labor market changes. Additionally, researchers urged policymakers to enhance consumer protections against online fraud and implement balanced regulations that encourage fair competition. The TDRI report proposed three key recommendations: leveraging digital platforms to reduce inequality, enforcing regulations that protect users while fostering innovation, and providing support for gig workers and MSMEs to ensure sustainable economic growth.

https://www.nationthailand.com/business/economy/40046750

小編點評:TDRI 研究顯示,Grab 在 2023 年為泰國經濟貢獻 1% GDP,帶來 1,790 億泰銖的經濟活動,創造 28 萬個新就業機會,並提升家庭收入 240 億泰銖。報告呼籲政府加強監管與支持零工經濟,推動技能培訓、消費者保護與公平競爭政策,以確保經濟可持續增長。

Nissan Reportedly Seeks Tesla Investment Amid Turnaround Efforts

根據報導日產汽車正尋求特斯拉投資以扭轉局面

Nissan is reportedly exploring investment from Tesla as part of its search for a new strategic partner following failed merger talks with Honda, according to the Financial Times. Former Tesla board member Hiromichi Mizuno, backed by former Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, is leading efforts to secure a deal, with some Nissan board members aware of the discussions. A consortium led by Tesla is being considered, with Taiwan’s Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. potentially taking a minority stake to prevent a full takeover, given its close ties to Beijing.

As part of the talks, Mizuno and his team are reportedly hoping Tesla will consider acquiring Nissan’s manufacturing plants in Tennessee and Mississippi. However, Tesla CEO Elon Musk appeared indifferent to the idea, stating on X, “The Tesla factory IS the product,” signaling that the EV giant may not be interested in integrating Nissan’s facilities into its operations. The negotiations come as Nissan seeks stability and new growth opportunities in the evolving electric vehicle market.

https://www.nationthailand.com/blogs/business/automobile/40046561

小編點評:據報道,在與本田的合併談判失敗後,日產正尋求特斯拉的投資,以尋找新的戰略合作夥伴,其中由特斯拉牽頭的財團,鴻海精密也可能參與其中。然而,馬斯克對收購日產美國工廠表現冷淡,強調特斯拉專注於自身的工廠運營,此舉為日產汽車在電動車市場尋求成長的關鍵時刻增添變數。

AI, Omnichannel, and D2C Reshape ASEAN Retail Market

人工智慧、全通路和 D2C 重塑東協零售市場

Artificial Intelligence (AI), omnichannel strategies, and direct-to-customer (D2C) business models are transforming the ASEAN retail sector, including Thailand, as consumer behavior shifts toward sustainability and convenience. Kristie Davison, vice president for sales in Asia Pacific at Relex Solution, highlighted that Thai consumers are increasingly purchasing eco-friendly products through social media while demanding greater personalization and seamless shopping experiences. The rapid growth of e-commerce and technological advancements are further shaping the region’s retail landscape, requiring businesses to adapt to changing consumer expectations.

To stay competitive, retailers are embracing three key trends: AI-driven personalization to enhance customer experience and delivery efficiency, omnichannel strategies that integrate online and offline shopping for a seamless journey, and the D2C model, which allows brands to engage directly with customers through exclusive deals. Davison emphasized that AI is playing a crucial role in improving operational efficiency and meeting the demands of younger, sustainability-conscious consumers. As the retail sector evolves, businesses that successfully leverage these trends will be better positioned to thrive in the competitive ASEAN market.

https://www.nationthailand.com/business/economy/40046543

小編點評:人工智慧、全通路策略與 D2C 模式正在重塑東協零售市場,消費者對環保產品、個人化體驗與無縫購物過程的需求日益增加。零售商紛紛運用 AI 推薦、線上線下整合與D2C直營模式來提升競爭力,以滿足年輕世代與關注永續發展的消費者需求。

Digital investments in Malaysia more than tripled in 2024, amid govt push into AI, advanced computing — MDEC

馬來西亞政府大力推動人工智慧和先進計算技術,2024 年數位投資成長兩倍以上 — MDEC

KUALA LUMPUR: Digital investments in Malaysia more than tripled to hit a record high in 2024, amid the government’s push into artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced computing, latest government data showed.

In 2024, Malaysia’s digital sector attracted RM163.6 billion in investments, a significant increase from RM46.8 billion in 2023, driven by the government’s focus on artificial intelligence and advanced computing.

Investments in data centres and cloud infrastructure accounted for 76.8% of total approved digital investments in 2024. Malaysia has established a dedicated Data Centre Task Force to drive further growth and ensure that the sector stays in line with the country’s long-term sustainability goals. MDEC CEO Anuar Fariz Fadzil emphasized the agency’s commitment to collaborating with other government bodies to attract strategic investments.

小編點評:馬來西亞數位投資的強勁成長,突顯該國對人工智慧與先進運算的戰略布局,並提升其在 全球數位經濟中的競爭力。政府成立數據中心特別工作小組,確保技術發展與永續目標並行。這些政策不僅將促進經濟增長,還將創造高價值就業機會,進一步提升馬來西亞在國際科技領域的地位。

https://theedgemalaysia.com/node/746161

Malaysia Promotes ASEAN’s Digital Economy and Green Initiatives

馬來西亞推動東協數位經濟與綠色發展

KUALA LUMPUR (VNA): At the second ASEAN Future Forum (AFF) held in Hanoi on February 25-26, 2025, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is expected to emphasized ASEAN’s commitment to sustainable development, stating that the region must address pressing issues to “secure the future of member countries”.

Malaysia is spearheading efforts to strengthen ASEAN’s digital economy and sustainability agenda, aligning with regional goals for innovation and environmental responsibility. The government is focusing on enhancing digital infrastructure, advancing artificial intelligence (AI), and fostering green investments to drive long-term economic growth. Malaysia’s leadership in these areas is expected to create new business opportunities and position ASEAN as a competitive force in the global digital and green economy.

With the region’s growing reliance on digital transformation and sustainable practices, Malaysia aims to collaborate with ASEAN member states to establish regulatory frameworks, encourage cross-border trade, and attract foreign investments in key sectors such as renewable energy and smart technology.

小編點評:馬來西亞積極推動 數位與綠色發展,體現東協向科技驅動與永續未來邁進的趨勢。戰略合作與政策創新將成為關鍵,以確保該區域在全球競爭中保持領先地位。

https://en.vietnamplus.vn/malaysia-promotes-aseans-digital-economy-green-initiatives-post310506.vnp

US Policies Have Minimal Impact on Malaysia’s Semiconductor Industry Amid Strong Trade

KUALA LUMPUR: On the back of strong trade ties between Malaysia and the United States, the potential negative impact of US policies on Malaysia’s semiconductor export performance is considered “minimal”, a senior minister said.

In a written parliamentary reply, Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz said that last year, the US was Malaysia’s third-largest trading partner, with a total trade value of RM324.9 billion, accounting for 11.3 per cent of Malaysia’s overall trade. Exports to the US totalled RM198.6 billion, accounting for 13.2 per cent of Malaysia’s exports, while imports from the country reached RM126.3 billion, or 9.2 per cent of total imports, he said. Tengku Zafrul said these figures underscore the strong trade interdependence between Malaysia and the US.

Malaysia’s semiconductor industry remains resilient despite shifting US trade policies, with strong global demand and diversified trade partnerships helping to mitigate potential risks. According to government and industry experts, Malaysia continues to attract semiconductor investments, reinforcing its role as a key player in the global supply chain.

小編點評馬來西亞積極推動數位與綠色發展,體現東協向科技驅動與永續未來邁進的趨勢。戰略合作與政策創新將成為關鍵,以確保該區域在全球競爭中保持領先地位。

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2025/02/1180555/us-policies-impact-malaysias-semiconductors-minimal-amid-strong-trade

Malaysia’s Digital Investments Hit Record High at $37 Billion in 2024

馬來西亞數位投資創歷史新高 2024 年達 370 億美元

Malaysia’s digital economy achieved a major milestone in 2024, with digital investments reaching a record-high $37 billion. The surge in investments reflects the country’s rapid digital transformation, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and semiconductor manufacturing.

In 2024, Malaysia’s digital sector achieved a record high in investments, reaching MYR 163.6 billion (approximately $36.81 billion), a significant increase from MYR 46.8 billion ($10.53 billion) in 2023. This surge is attributed to a stable government and pro-business policies that have reinforced the country’s reputation as a regional tech hub.

The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) highlighted that strong infrastructure and strategic public-private partnerships have bolstered investor confidence. Additionally, Malaysia’s focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing has attracted high-value global investments.

小編點評馬來西亞數位投資創紀錄增長,凸顯其在區域科技產業的影響力日益提升。未來,透過戰略性政策及企業合作,馬來西亞有望進一步推動數位經濟的長期可持續發展。

https://technode.global/2025/02/28/malaysias-digital-investments-hit-record-high-at-37b-in-2024/

Malaysia warns US tariffs could halve trade growth as tough semiconductor restrictions loom

馬來西亞警告美國關稅恐使貿易成長減半 半導體業面臨挑戰

Malaysia’s semiconductor industry could face significant headwinds if the United States reintroduces tariffs under former President Donald Trump’s trade policies, a government minister has warned. As a key player in the global semiconductor supply chain, Malaysia’s exports may be impacted, potentially disrupting trade flows and investment confidence.

Malaysia’s Trade Minister, Tengku Zafrul Aziz, has expressed concerns that the U.S. administration’s proposed tariffs could significantly impact Malaysia’s trade growth, particularly affecting key exports like semiconductors. He warned that such measures might halve the nation’s trade growth this year, stating that “should there be tariffs, any new measures by [other] countries or a trade war, there will be an impact.” In response, Malaysia plans to engage in discussions with the U.S. to highlight the mutual benefits of their trade relationship, especially in the semiconductor sector. This proactive approach aims to mitigate potential disruptions in the global supply chain and maintain economic stability.

Despite these concerns, officials remain optimistic about Malaysia’s long-term semiconductor strategy, emphasizing its diversified trade partnerships and ongoing efforts to strengthen local manufacturing and chip design capabilities. The government is also working on mitigating risks through enhanced regional collaborations, particularly within ASEAN and key markets in Europe and China.

小編點評:美國擬議的關稅政策對馬來西亞既帶來挑戰,也可能促成機遇。雖然貿易成長減速風險上升,但 馬來西亞積極與美方溝通,或可促進雙邊關係深化,並提升該國半導體產業的韌性。在地緣政治不確定性加劇的背景下,馬來西亞如何適應變局並推動產業多元化,將成為未來發展的關鍵。

https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/economics/article/3299902/malaysian-trade-faces-battering-trumps-tariffs-semiconductors-warns-minister