Malaysia’s strategic location and active role in global trade have made it a vital logistics and manufacturing hub in Southeast Asia. In line with this, the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD) regulates all import, export, and transshipment activities through a comprehensive licensing framework.
A Customs License is required for companies involved in the import, export, manufacturing, storage, and warehousing of goods that are dutiable or exempted under Malaysia’s Customs Act 1967. Obtaining the appropriate license ensures your business complies with customs laws, avoids penalties, and benefits from trade incentives.
Import & Export License
Required for companies that import or export dutiable or controlled goods.
Ensures compliance with customs procedures and tariff regulations.
Licensed Manufacturing Warehouse (LMW)
For companies that manufacture goods primarily for export.
Allows import of raw materials and machinery free of duties and taxes.
Regulated under Section 65/65A of the Customs Act 1967.
Private Bonded Warehouse
For storing imported goods with suspension of import duties.
Ideal for trading or third-party logistics (3PL) companies.
Public Bonded Warehouse
Open for use by multiple importers/exporters.
Approved for storing dutiable goods pending customs clearance.
Free Zone Operator License
Grants license to operate within Malaysia’s designated Free Zones (e.g., Port Klang, Bayan Lepas).
Allows duty-free treatment and simplified procedures for manufacturing, trading, or logistics.
Customs Agent License (Forwarding Agent)
Required for parties representing importers/exporters in dealings with customs.
Involves documentation handling, clearance, and tax settlement.
✅ Legal Compliance: Avoid fines and seizures by adhering to customs laws.
✅ Tax/Duty Exemptions: Leverage exemptions under LMW, Free Zones, and other schemes.
✅ Trade Facilitation: Faster and smoother cross-border operations.
✅ Enhanced Credibility: Builds trust with logistics partners and authorities.
✅ Access to Government Incentives: Qualify for import/export grants and investment tax allowances.
Registered Malaysian entity (Sdn. Bhd., Berhad)
Premises suitable for the type of license applied
Business nature relevant to trade, logistics, or manufacturing
Supporting documents such as:
SSM Registration
Business plan and financial forecast
Factory layout and operations flow
Customs Form A/B and technical specifications
Tenancy or ownership documentation of premises
Consultation & Eligibility Review
Determine the correct license type for your business activities.
Document Compilation
Prepare all necessary documents including layout plans, operational details, and declarations.
Submission to Customs
File the application with the RMCD or relevant customs unit.
Site Audit by Customs
Premises will be inspected for infrastructure and compliance capability.
Approval & Licensing
Upon successful review, the Customs Department will issue the license.
We provide a turnkey solution for your Customs License application:
📌 Advisory on the best-fit license type (LMW, bonded warehouse, import/export, etc.)
📌 Preparation and review of all required documentation
📌 Liaison with Royal Malaysian Customs Department
📌 Premises readiness guidance for site inspection
📌 Post-approval support for compliance and reporting
🔹 Years of experience in Malaysia’s customs licensing
🔹 Strong relationship with RMCD & other trade-related agencies
🔹 Dedicated compliance team to handle your application end-to-end
🔹 Tailored guidance based on your industry and trade model
Malaysia