On July 2, 2025, Malaysia announced new legislation aimed at reducing the import of plastic waste. This move strengthens the country's efforts to combat environmental pollution.
The Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry stated that Kuala Lumpur is committed to fostering a legitimate, responsible, and environmentally friendly business environment. In 2023, Malaysia imported over 450,000 tons of plastic waste.
Malaysia will issue "certificates of approval" for legal plastic waste imports, provided importers comply with Malaysian law and exporters are from countries that have signed and ratified the Basel Convention. The majority of imported plastic waste comes from the United States, followed by Germany and Spain.