Exploring agribusiness activities: a case study of informal cross-border trade between Serikin, Malaysia – Kalimantan, Indonesia

Informal agribusiness trade at the Serikin market, located along the Malaysia–Kalimantan, Indonesia border, plays an important role in sustaining small-scale traders while contributing to local economic activity and tourism in Sarawak. Despite its significance, this trade operates largely outside formal regulatory frameworks, raising governance concerns, particularly in relation to border control and tax collection. Following the reopening of the border after COVID-19, trading activities resumed, yet empirical research focusing specifically on agribusiness at Serikin remains limited. This study aims to (i) explore the benefits of informal agribusiness trade, (ii) examine the challenges faced by agro-traders, and (iii) assess the future of the market from Malaysian stakeholder perspectives. A qualitative approach was employed, using semi-structured interviews with Indonesian agro-traders and Malaysian stakeholders, and the data were analysed thematically. The findings indicate that informal agribusiness trade provides critical livelihood support through income generation, market access, and cross-border economic opportunities, while also contributing to local food supply and market vibrancy. However, traders face significant challenges, including restrictive border procedures, regulatory complexities, limited infrastructure, and financial risks associated with perishable goods. Stakeholders generally support increased formalisation to improve security and governance, but also acknowledge the risk of marginalising small-scale traders if policies are not implemented inclusively. The study concludes that informal agribusiness at Serikin is structurally embedded in the regional economy and cannot be addressed solely through enforcement-based policies. A balanced and adaptive approach that aligns regulatory objectives with traders’ realities is essential to ensure the sustainability of the market. Future research should incorporate Indonesian stakeholder perspectives and comparative analysis across border markets to strengthen policy development.