58
Figure 3.7: Malaysian Exports and Imports 2012
Source: ITC
Trade policies have focused on both internal and external improvements to ensure that exports continue to
grow. Malaysia is actively promoting trade in new and emerging markets, such as China, India, Middle
East and the new EU members. With the current focus on promoting the development of the services
sector, promotional efforts will also be intensified for the export of services. The trade regime has been
progressively liberalized to encourage integration at the regional and global level.
Indonesia
Indonesia grew by more than 6% annually in 2010-12, thanks to the promotion of fiscally conservative
policies, resulting in a debt-to-GDP ratio of less than 25%, a fiscal deficit below 3%, and historically low
rates of inflation. The World Bank forecasts the GDP to rise marginally to 6.3% in 2013.From 2007 to
2011; Indonesia’s GDP grew by an average of 5.9% per year. GDP per capita doubled in value from
US$1,859 to US$3,495 while the incidence of poverty declined from a post-crisis peak of 24% to 12.4%
in 2011. However, in common with sub-Saharan Africa and countries in the MENA region, over 50% of
the population still lives on less than US$2 a day (purchasing power parity).
Indonesia is the world's most important palm oil producer, the second largest natural rubber producer and
the third largest rice producer. Agriculture, forestry, and fishing contributed 14.7% of GDP in 2011 and
engaged an estimated 35.9% of the employed labour force, continuing to provide employment to more
than 40 million persons. Principal crops for domestic consumption include rice, cassava, and maize.
Services provided 38.1% of GDP in 2011 and engaged 43.5% of the employed labour force.