Malaysia and South Korea AI Chip Exports Surge

Malaysia’s technology sector is entering a strong growth phase as global AI semiconductor demand lifts exports and earnings visibility. Integrated circuits accounted for about one‑third of Malaysia’s electrical and electronics exports, which jumped 39.5% year‑on‑year in January 2026, and broker Apex Securities kept an overweight stance on the sector, raising target prices for firms such as ViTrox and QES Group.

In South Korea, exports surged 70.9% year‑on‑year in June, the fastest pace since the late 1970s, driven by a tripling of semiconductor shipments tied to the AI boom. Monthly export values topped US$100 billion, creating a record trade surplus, while the KOSPI slipped around 2% as investors took profits after an exceptional quarter. The won weakened and bond yields rose, but foreign investors remained a major holder of Korean equities.