Boost Your Global Presence with the Services Export Fund (SEF)

Do you aim to scale your Malaysian service business internationally? The Services Export Fund (SEF) by MATRADE is designed to facilitate your global growth.

Overview of the Service Export Fund (SEF)

The Services Export Fund (SEF) offers reimbursable grants to help MSPs undertake activities that promote and facilitate their services in the global market. This initiative aligns with MATRADE’s mission to bolster Malaysia’s presence as a competent and competitive service provider on the international stage.

The SEF aims to:

• Improve the global competitiveness of Malaysian service providers.
• Facilitate MSPs in making inroads and expanding their presence in international markets.
• Support Malaysia’s export promotion initiatives and capture global service export opportunities.
• Enhance the global branding of Malaysia as a competent, trusted, and preferred service provider.
  

Eligible Activities

The Services Export Fund (SEF) covers a wide range of activities essential for international expansion, including:

1. International Competitions: Up to RM 50,000 for participation in competitions abroad.
2. Tender Bidding: Up to RM 50,000 for travel, accommodation, and tender document purchases.
3. Business Networking: Up to RM 100,000 for meetings with potential clients overseas.
4. Project Execution: Up to RM 100,000 for travel and accommodation for executing overseas projects.
5. Feasibility Studies: Up to RM 1,000,000 for international project feasibility studies.
6. Overseas Office Setup: Up to RM 200,000 for establishing offices abroad.
7. Market Intelligence: Up to RM 50,000 for market reports and commercial intelligence.
8. Prototype Development: Up to RM 50,000 for developing prototypes or system customizations.
9. International Training: Up to RM 50,000 for participation in relevant training programs.
10. International Certification: Up to RM 100,000 for acquiring necessary international certifications.
11. Software and Equipment Rental: Up to RM 200,000 for renting software or machinery for exporting services.
12. Logistics Costs: Up to RM 350,000 for logistics expenses for overseas projects.

Eligible sectors 

The Services Export Fund (SEF) is only available for you if you’re in the Malaysian services sector, with a focus on the following: 

• Accounting
• Aerospace
• Business Services
• Construction and Related Professional Services
• Education
• Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS)
• Engineering Services
• Franchising
• Halal-related Services
• Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Services
• Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
• Legal
• Logistics
• Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO)
• Maritime
• Oil and Gas
• Power Generation and Distribution.

However, if you’re from the following sectors, you’ll be excluded from the funds:

• Banking
• Insurance
• Real estate
• Tourism

Eligibility Criteria

Malaysian Service Providers (MSPs)

• Incorporated under the Companies Act 1965/2016 or registered as professionals or cooperatives in Malaysia.
• At least 60% Malaysian-owned.
• Operational for at least one year (three years for feasibility studies).
• Not a dormant entity.
• Currently exporting or ready to start exporting Malaysian services.
• Registered with MATRADE under the Malaysia Exporters Registry.

Trade & Industry Associations, Chambers of Commerce, and Professional Bodies

• Registered with the Registrar of Society (ROS) or a recognized professional authority.
• At least 60% Malaysian-owned.
• Registered with MATRADE under the Malaysia Exporters Registry.

Government-Linked Companies (GLCs) and Government-Linked Investment Companies (GLICs)

• Incorporated under the Companies Act 1965/2016.
• At least 60% Malaysian-owned.
• Registered with MATRADE under the Malaysia Exporters Registry.

Application and Reimbursement Process

The Services Export Fund provides 100% reimbursable grants for all eligible activities. The process involves spending on eligible expenses, filing an application for a claim, and getting reimbursed upon approval.

1. Registration: Applicants must register with MATRADE and MyExport.
2. Claim Submission: Claims must be submitted within 40 days from the last day of the event or activity.
3. Documentation: Applicants need to provide supporting documents such as the Certificate of Incorporation, financial statements, and proof of export activities.
   
   

This fund is a vital initiative to empower Malaysian service providers to compete on a global stage. By providing financial support for a broad spectrum of export-related activities, the SEF enables Malaysian businesses to enhance their international presence, gain valuable market insights, and achieve sustainable growth in the global market.

For more detailed guidelines and to apply, visit the MATRADE website. Empower your business growth with the Services Export Fund today and make your mark on the global stage.