MIHAS Exhibition in Malaysia: A Global Halal Market Crossroads
Malaysia hosted one of the most prestigious business events in the halal industry: the inauguration of the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS). The event, which has become a key hub for halal market players, was held in Kuala Lumpur, with high-profile dignitaries in attendance, including the Malaysian Prime Minister, who highlighted the growing importance of the halal industry in the global economy.
An international platform for the halal industry
MIHAS, which attracts exhibitors and participants from all continents each year, has quickly established itself as a global showcase for halal products. This year, more than 1,000 exhibitors from food, cosmetics, modest fashion and other sectors showcased their products, attracting the attention of thousands of visitors who came to discover the latest innovations in this growing market.
The stands were varied and presented products ranging from delicatessen to beauty care that respects halal standards, without forgetting textiles and accessories of modest fashion. This edition reflects not only the growth of the halal industry, but also its diversification into unexpected sectors such as technology, finance and crafts.
Malaysia, at the center of the global halal market
The Malaysian Prime Minister’s speech was one of the highlights of the opening ceremony. In his speech, he emphasised Malaysia’s pivotal role in promoting the halal market globally. He highlighted the country’s continued efforts to become a strategic hub for the industry, thereby attracting foreign investment while boosting local economic growth.
“Malaysia is more than a leader in halal certification, we are a bridge between cultures, a catalyst for innovation and a gateway to global markets”he said, warmly welcoming participants from all corners of the globe.
Press Conference: A meeting with industry leaders
Our Oumma team had the opportunity to attend the press conference held right after the official inauguration. This conference allowed journalists from all over the world to ask questions directly to the leaders of the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), the organization in charge of organizing MIHAS.
MATRADE Chief Executive Officer Datuk Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz and President Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican answered the many questions with frankness and passion. They shared their vision for the future of the halal industry and the objectives of this 18th edition of MIHAS.
“The goal is to go beyond just trade. We want to promote strategic partnerships, encourage innovation in the sector and position Malaysia as a key hub for global halal trade.”said Datuk Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz.
As for Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican, he stressed the importance of including all sectors of the economy in this dynamic: “Halal is no longer just about food. It now encompasses finance, technology, health and many other sectors that adapt to the expectations of Muslim and non-Muslim consumers.”
A booming event
With exhibitors from countries as diverse as Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Palestine, Thailand, Korea, France, Brazil and Japan, MIHAS 2024 is part of an international dynamic that shows the growing interest in the halal economy. Many companies are taking advantage of this platform to seal partnerships and increase their presence in this thriving industry, valued at several billion dollars.
The diversity of attendees and visible enthusiasm are testament to an industry undergoing transformation, where innovation is at the heart of growth. MIHAS continues to establish itself as one of the most influential events in the global halal ecosystem, and this 2024 edition promises to further strengthen Malaysia’s position as a leader.
MIHAS, a growing global event
At the press conference, MATRADE President Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican announced ambitious plans for the future of MIHAS. The organization is not limited to organizing this major event in Kuala Lumpur. Other editions of MIHAS have already been held in strategic cities such as Dubai, marking MATRADE’s desire to promote the halal industry internationally. The President also revealed that the next goal is to launch an edition in China, a key emerging market for the sector. After China, the event will continue its global expansion with a tour of Europe, aiming to reach an even wider audience and strengthen economic partnerships across the continent. This expansion strategy reflects MATRADE’s ambition to make MIHAS an essential global platform for halal trade.
The Oumma team, present at this event, will keep you informed of major developments and new trends emerging from this exceptional international meeting.
