Malaysia Strengthens Position in Regional Textile Industry with ATEX 2026 Launch
Malaysia is reinforcing its role in Southeast Asia’s apparel and textile industry with the debut of the Apparel & Textile Exhibition Malaysia (ATEX Malaysia 2026), a major trade event connecting manufacturers, suppliers, and buyers from across Asia.
Held from June 25–27 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), the exhibition arrives as the country’s textile sector continues to expand amid evolving global supply chains.
According to the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), Malaysia’s apparel and clothing accessories industry generated RM18.24 billion in total trade in 2025, representing an 8.3% increase year-on-year. Exports reached RM6.88 billion, while export shipments during the first five months of 2026 surged 27.8%, reflecting growing international demand for Malaysian textile products.
Organized by Kaizer Exhibitions & Conferences Sdn Bhd, the event is endorsed by MATRADE and supported by the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) and several industry associations from Malaysia and Bangladesh.
The exhibition covers more than 4,200 square meters and features 79 exhibitors from Malaysia, Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, and Japan. Participants are showcasing innovations across the textile and apparel value chain, including fabrics, garment manufacturing, textile machinery, automation, sustainable production technologies, printing solutions, fashion accessories, and home textiles.
Speaking at the event, MATRADE Deputy CEO S. Jai Shankar highlighted that changing global trade dynamics are creating new opportunities for Malaysia to emerge as a key sourcing and manufacturing hub in the region. He noted that local manufacturers are increasingly adopting automation, sustainability practices, and value-added design capabilities to enhance competitiveness.
Kaizer Exhibitions & Conferences Business Development Manager Andy Poh said ATEX Malaysia aims to serve as a regional sourcing platform that fosters business partnerships and industry collaboration.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh High Commissioner to Malaysia Manjurul Karim Khan Chowdhury emphasized the potential for stronger Malaysia-Bangladesh cooperation in ready-made garments, knitwear, and textile products. He also proposed initiatives such as business matching programs and a future Bangladesh-Malaysia Textile Forum to deepen supply chain collaboration.
Throughout the three-day event, attendees can participate in networking sessions, business matching programs, and industry forums while exploring the latest advancements shaping the future of the textile and apparel sector.
Organizers believe ATEX Malaysia 2026 will play a key role in strengthening regional partnerships and creating new growth opportunities as Malaysia expands its footprint in the global textile and apparel market.