SHANGHAI, 5 November 2025 – Malaysia’s Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has begun a four-day working visit to Shanghai, China, from November 4 to 7, aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in the halal industry, technical and vocational education (TVET), and trade between both nations.
Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as Minister of Rural and Regional Development, arrived at Hongqiao International Airport at 11:14 p.m. on Tuesday.
He was received by Malaysian Ambassador to China Datuk Norman Muhamad and Consul-General in Shanghai Mohd Shahafeez Shaharis.
Upon arrival at his hotel, Zahid was welcomed by Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican, MATRADE Chief Executive Officer Datuk Seri Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz, and Trade Commissioner Norman Nasri.
MIHAS@Shanghai and CIIE Highlight Malaysia’s Growing Halal Trade Presence
During the visit, Zahid is scheduled to officiate the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS)@Shanghai 2025, attend the opening of the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE), and witness the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) and Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) — one of China’s leading institutions.
Held at the National Exhibition and Convention Centre (NECC), CIIE serves as a flagship platform under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), promoting trade and investment among participating nations.
This marks the first time a Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister is attending the event, following Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s participation in 2024, signalling Malaysia’s continuous commitment to strengthening its trade presence in China.
Expanding Education and Halal Industry Partnerships
As Chairman of the National TVET Council, Zahid will also attend the 2nd Malaysia–China International TVET Industry–Education Cooperation Forum and the 4th Malaysia–China Vocational Education Exhibition, where he is expected to deliver a keynote address.
Meanwhile, in his capacity as Chairman of the Malaysian Halal Industry Development Council (MPIH), Zahid will officiate the CIDBH Information Centre and the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (ACCCIM) Pavilion before concluding his visit on Friday.
China Remains Malaysia’s Largest Trading Partner
China has remained Malaysia’s largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years since 2009, with total trade reaching RM484.12 billion in 2024, representing 16.8% of Malaysia’s total global trade valued at RM2.88 trillion.
In the halal sector, Malaysia recorded exports worth RM61.79 billion in 2024, a 15% increase compared to the previous year.
China ranked as Malaysia’s second-largest halal export destination, with exports valued at RM7.04 billion.
Positioning Malaysia as a Global Halal Leader
Zahid’s working visit underscores Malaysia’s determination to enhance its role as a global leader in the halal economy, while strengthening its strategic partnerships with China in education, trade, and halal development.
The visit also reaffirms Malaysia’s broader mission to advance economic diplomacy and position the nation as a trusted hub for high-quality halal products, services, and expertise across Asia and beyond.
