Kuala Lumpur - The 8th Malaysia China Trade Expo was held at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur from September 17 to 19, bringing together around 100 Chinese companies and nearly 50 Malaysian firms.

Covering nearly 9,000 square meters, this year's expo featured not only traditional manufacturing, but also emerging sectors including cross-border e-commerce, commercial AI applications and pet products.

Launched in 2017, MCTE is now in its tenth year. As more Chinese companies expand overseas, an exhibition booth alone is no longer enough. Companies are increasingly looking for local partners, sales channels and market support to help their products move from display shelves into real markets.

Introducing the Yumaotong Foreign Trade Service Platform to Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. (Photo/The organizer)

This shift was reflected in Chongqing's participation this year.

For the first time, the Yumaotong Foreign Trade Service Platform joined the expo organizers in helping Chinese companies and products enter the Malaysian market. The platform brought together products from Chongqing, as well as Shandong, Shanxi, Guangdong, Sichuan and other regions to Kuala Lumpur.

Rather than focusing on a single city or region, Yumaotong connected resources from different parts of China. Through cooperation with Shandong under the Shandong-Chongqing Cooperation mechanism, links with Sichuan enterprises, and coordination with provinces along the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, the platform helped more Chinese products reach Southeast Asian buyers.

A visitor tastes Shanxi Sea Buckthorn Juice. (Photo/The organizer)

But the service went beyond the exhibition floor.

For many companies entering a new market, finding customers is only the first step. Understanding local regulations, building distribution channels and establishing long-term connections are equally important.

The Yumaotong Smart Trade Platform Southeast Asia (Malaysia) Operations Center was established as an overseas service hub for Chinese companies entering ASEAN markets. Backed by more than 35 years of experience in Malaysia, the center provides support in areas including business consultation, trade matchmaking, logistics coordination, certification services and market promotion.

Selected products showcased at the expo. (Photo/The organizer)

For Chongqing, the significance goes beyond helping local products go global. By combining the advantages of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor with overseas service networks, Chongqing is helping companies from western China and beyond connect with Southeast Asian markets.

After the expo, Chongqing Qianxin Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation Group (CFTEC) will continue using the center to maintain business connections, help companies find local partners, expand sales channels and build a more sustainable presence in the ASEAN market.