Direct selling sector may contribute RM20b in 2020

KUALA LUMPUR: The direct selling industry in Malaysia is expected to contribute RM20 billion to the local economy in 2020, says Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.

Last year, the industry contributed more than RM13 billion in sales revenue, involving more than four million of Malaysians.

“Malaysia is one of the top 10 countries for direct selling in the world and ranks fourth in Asia after China, South Korea and Japan,” Saifuddin said at the 25th Malaysian Direct Distribution Association (MDDA) dinner recently.

He said MDDA also works with the government to minimise cases related to pyramid schemes that affect the reputation of multi-level marketing firms here.

“We are always concerned on the companies’ business ethics whereby all consumers reports will be looked into by the ministry regardless of their status.”

At the dinner, MDDA signed a memorandum of understanding with the Global Federation of Direct Selling Association, with representatives of direct selling associations from India, Philippines and Thailand.