KUALA LUMPUR, 31 MARCH 2026 – The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) and the Responsible Business Alliance (RBA) have formalised a strategic collaboration through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at promoting responsible and sustainable trade.

This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to advancing Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles within international trade. By leveraging their respective networks and expertise, MATRADE and RBA will work together to enhance awareness, facilitate timely information sharing and strengthen the understanding of evolving global sustainability requirements among stakeholders.

As global trade continues to be shaped by increasingly stringent sustainability expectations, this partnership underscores Malaysia’s proactive approach in aligning with international standards and reinforcing its position as a responsible trading nation. The collaboration will also support broader outreach efforts to industry players, encouraging greater adoption of responsible business practices across global supply chains.

RBA, as one of the world’s largest industry coalitions dedicated to responsible business conduct, brings together leading global companies across key sectors including electronics, retail, automotive and toy industries, all committed to improving sustainability outcomes across global supply chains. Through this partnership, MATRADE will further strengthen its engagement with international stakeholders and amplify Malaysia’s sustainability narrative in key export markets.

Abu Bakar Yusof, Chief Executive Officer of MATRADE, said: “This strategic partnership marks an important step in reinforcing MATRADE’s commitment to sustainable and responsible trade. As global markets place greater emphasis on ESG considerations, it is essential that we continue to enhance awareness and ensure that Malaysian exporters remain aligned with evolving international expectations. Partnering with the Responsible Business Alliance enables us to further strengthen our outreach and engagement with global stakeholders.”

Rob Lederer, Chief Executive Officer of RBA, said: “We are pleased to collaborate with MATRADE in advancing responsible business practices in the context of international trade. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to promoting sustainability and transparency across global supply chains, while fostering greater awareness of ESG principles among businesses and stakeholders.”

The MoU serves as a framework for collaboration between MATRADE and RBA, signalling a mutual intention to support sustainable trade development and contribute to a more responsible global trading ecosystem.

View this announcement here on the MATRADE website.