Key Points:
- Malaysia is home to 31.1 million people with total GDP growth of $296.5 billion
- Many global and local couriers are available in Malaysia, such as DHL, UPS, or even FedEx
- Easyship offers up to 89% off discounted shipping rates on 250+ couriers
Looking to take your business cross-border?
Shipping to Malaysia can do the trick! Here’s a closer look at the country’s eCommerce market insights, top online marketplaces, import regulations, and more!
Table of Contents
Strong eCommerce Growth in Malaysia
Malaysia is home to 31.1 million people with total GDP growth of $296.5 billion. The GDP per capita is currently at $10,329 and is estimated to grow to $13,958 by the year 2022, while the country’s GDP growth rate is 7.2 percent and is steadily rising.
Internet penetration is high as well, at over 68 percent. There are currently 16.53 million eCommerce users who annually spend around $79.15 in online purchases. By the year 2023, the number of Internet users is predicted to grow to 21.44 and spend to $110.04 annually.
Mobile commerce, in particular, is growing quickly in the country.
Global, Local Online Marketplaces Popular in Malaysia
Many global online marketplaces have a presence in Malaysia, along with local favorites.
Just a few of these include:
Diverse Online Shopping Habits in Malaysia
Some of the top items currently bought online in Malaysia include:
- Clothing, jewelry, and accessories
- Electronics and home appliances
- Travel arrangements
- Mobile devices and phones
- Food and beverages
Bank Transfers Top Payment Method in Malaysia
There are several options available for payment online, but the most prominent method used in Malaysia is bank transfers. There are other online payment methods available as well, but they are less popular.
The top payment methods in Malaysia include:
- Bank transfers
- Online banking
- Cash on delivery
- Credit cards
- eWallets
Shipping to Malaysia
If you’re looking into shipping to Malaysia from the U.S. and other markets, it's important to know what couriers to use, shipping restrictions, and the country’s tax and duty system. So, here’s a quick look at all that and more!
Local and International couriers in Malaysia
Many global and local couriers are available in Malaysia. As always, be sure to use the Easyship shipping rates calculator to find the best deals available!
Global couriers that offer services to Malaysia include:
- DHL
- FedEx
- Overseas Courier Service
- USPS
- SF Express
- Global Post
- Aramex
Local couriers in Malaysia are:
- Poslaju Melaka
- U Parcel Service Malaysia
- Post Malaysia
- Nationwide Express
Shipping Restrictions and Prohibitions in Malaysia
Shipping to Malaysia also requires knowing the nation’s import restrictions and prohibitions. You certainly don’t want a shipment stuck in customs because you accidentally shipped a banned item to the country!
Restricted Items in Malaysia:
- Live fish and animal oils
- Household and agriculture pesticides
- Imitation firearms and fireworks
- Motor vehicles
- Telecom equipment
Prohibited Items in Malaysia :
- Firearms and explosives
- Drugs
- Sodium arsenate
- Items resembling syringes
- Cocoa pods
A more exhaustive list can be found here!
VAT and Import Duties in Malaysia
Taxes and duties are calculated in Malaysia based on the price of the product and shipping cost, also known as the CIF method for tax and duty calculation.
The tax threshold and duty threshold is 500 MYR, while 6 percent of VAT/GST is also applied in Malaysia.
Many items aren’t subject to import duties in Malaysia, including tablets, computers, documents, audio/video equipment, watches, jewelry, and pet accessories. However, mobile devices are subject to a 20 percent tax, as are home appliances and toys.
Don’t forget to use the Easyship tax and duties calculator too!
Ship to Malaysia Today!
Shipping to Malaysia can be a great way to boost your eCommerce business overseas! Easyship can be your partner in this - we offer 250+ shipping solutions from major couriers worldwide with discounts of up to 89 percent!
Sign up for Easyship today to start shipping to Malaysia and taking your eCommerce company to new heights!
