Politics · Malaysia Bureau
Malaysia moving to shield small businesses from foreign e-commerce competition
The MADANI government is finalising protective measures to address concerns raised by local micro, small and medium enterprises regarding foreign e-commerce platforms. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed the initiative while attending regional meetings in Hangzhou.
LSN Malaysia ·
HANGZHOU, Sept 25 — The Malaysian government is working to implement additional safeguards for local MSMEs facing competition from international e-commerce operators, according to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
Anwar said the MADANI administration is in the final stages of developing follow-up measures to tackle grievances from the domestic micro, small and medium enterprise sector. The initiative reflects government concerns about the competitive pressures facing local businesses as foreign digital commerce platforms expand their presence in Malaysia.
The move comes as small business operators have increasingly voiced concerns about competing on unequal footing with well-capitalised foreign e-commerce giants. The government's protective framework is expected to encompass support mechanisms designed to strengthen the digital competitiveness of local MSMEs.
Official details regarding the specific measures remain limited, though the announcement signals a commitment to balancing Malaysia's digital economy growth with protection for domestic enterprises. Further details are expected to be announced as the measures are finalised.