Brunei Darussalam has introduced a strategic Export Drive Initiative aimed at accelerating economic diversification, strengthening non-oil sectors and expanding the country’s footprint in regional and global markets. (The Star)
Led by the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT), the initiative focuses on transforming Brunei’s agriculture, fisheries and agrifood industries into competitive, export-oriented sectors capable of driving long-term economic growth beyond traditional oil and gas reliance.
From Self-Sufficiency to Export-Led Growth
The initiative marks a strategic shift in Brunei’s development approach — moving beyond domestic self-sufficiency toward scalable production and international market participation.
In 2025, Brunei’s food sector recorded an estimated output of BND734 million, including:
- BND557 million from agriculture and agrifood
- BND178 million from fisheries
Exports from the sector reached approximately BND13 million, highlighting significant untapped potential for expansion.
Unlocking Regional Market Access and Job Creation
The Export Drive Initiative is designed to deliver multiple economic benefits, including:
- Expanding access to ASEAN and international markets
- Creating new employment opportunities for local communities
- Encouraging micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to scale and compete globally (The Star)
Participation in export markets is also expected to drive improvements in quality standards and compliance, including adherence to frameworks such as Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
Strengthening Competitiveness Through Innovation and Scale
By increasing production capacity and targeting export markets, Brunei aims to achieve:
- Economies of scale, lowering production costs
- Enhanced product differentiation and premium pricing strategies
- Greater value-added output in agrifood products
Examples of high-value products include organic shrimp, omega eggs and Brunei Halal-certified goods, which are positioned to capture niche markets regionally and globally.
Notably, the country has already demonstrated export capability, with egg exports to Singapore pushing self-sufficiency levels above 100%, indicating readiness for broader international expansion.
Enabling Infrastructure, Policy Support and Trade Integration
To support the initiative, the government is strengthening:
- Institutional capacity through agencies such as the Brunei Darussalam Food Authority (BDFA)
- Logistics and cold chain infrastructure in collaboration with public and private partners
- Bilateral trade relations and regional frameworks, including the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)
Entrepreneurs are also being categorised into three tiers based on export readiness, enabling targeted support and accelerated growth pathways.
Empowering Youth and Sustainable Development
The initiative places strong emphasis on youth participation, with 93 active youth entrepreneurs recorded in the sector in 2025, reflecting growing interest in agribusiness and export-driven industries.
Sustainability is another key pillar, with efforts including:
- Development of hybrid rice technology
- Establishment of a Hybrid Rice Research Centre in collaboration with China
- Promotion of environmentally sustainable production practices
Quote
“The Export Drive Initiative represents a strategic shift toward strengthening production and expanding market access. By empowering local industries to compete internationally, Brunei is building a more resilient and diversified economy.”
A Strategic Step for ASEAN Integration
Brunei’s initiative aligns with broader ASEAN goals of:
- Enhancing intra-regional trade
- Strengthening food security and supply chain resilience
- Promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth
As ASEAN continues to deepen economic integration, Brunei’s export-driven strategy positions it as an emerging contributor to the region’s agrifood and halal economy ecosystem.
Looking Ahead
With strong policy support, infrastructure development and growing entrepreneurial participation, Brunei is well positioned to unlock new export momentum and reduce dependence on hydrocarbons.
The Export Drive Initiative marks a pivotal step in shaping a diversified, competitive and future-ready economy, reinforcing Brunei’s role within ASEAN’s evolving trade landscape.
