The number of Japanese companies operating in Malaysia has reached 1,634. The number of service industry companies expanding into Malaysia is exceeding that of manufacturing companies.
According to the latest survey released by JETRO Kuala Lumpur, the number of Japanese companies operating in Malaysia reached 1,634 as of October 2023. This comprises 836 manufacturing companies and 785 non-manufacturing companies. In recent years, new entries in non-manufacturing sectors such as services, food and beverage, and retail have consistently surpassed those in manufacturing.
This trend is driven by the increasing purchasing power of Malaysian citizens. Per capita GDP reached $12,570 (2023), indicating robust domestic demand expansion. The entry of service industries targeting the consumer market is rapidly increasing. Japanese consumer brands such as Sushiro, Don Don Donki, and QB HOUSE are successively entering the Malaysian market.
Regionally, over 60% of Japanese companies are concentrated in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor. Malaysia’s investment environment—allowing 100% foreign investment, no minimum capital requirement, and an English-speaking business environment—remains one of the easiest emerging markets for Japanese companies to enter. Our organization provides one-stop support for companies establishing a presence in Malaysia.
Source: JETRO Kuala Lumpur “Survey on the Status of Japanese Companies in Malaysia” (October 2023)