The Malaysian government will launch a "Buy Made-in-Malaysia, Buy Low-Emissions" initiative under the Steel Industry Roadmap 2035 to boost demand for locally-produced low-emission steel products through prioritization in public projects and private sector encouragement. 

The initiative aims to address Malaysia's RM1.5 billion iron and steel trade deficit recorded in 2023, despite the country exporting more steel by volume than it imported. The trade imbalance exists because Malaysia primarily exports lower value-added products while importing higher value-added items such as flat steel. 

The Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) has made closing this value gap and building local capabilities a key industry objective. 

As part of the initiative, the government will implement procurement policies that favor the lowest-emission steel for public infrastructure and construction projects.