KUALA LUMPUR, 6 May 2025 – The Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) 2025 is poised to elevate Malaysia’s position as a global Halal trade hub, aiming to secure RM4.5 billion in trade value by harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) and a rising global demand for ethical and sustainable products.
Scheduled to take place from September 17 to 20, 2025, at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), the 21st edition of MIHAS will be powered by the newly launched Madani Digital Trade (MDT) platform. This AI-driven system is designed to enhance cross-border trade connectivity, facilitate real-time business matchmaking, and expand market access for Malaysian Halal exporters—particularly micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The MDT will also strengthen the event’s flagship International Sourcing Programme (INSP), which recorded RM2.5 billion in trade value in 2024 alone. This initiative aligns with Malaysia’s broader trade transformation goals under the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030) and the National Trade Blueprint.
“MDT is more than just a tool—it’s a gateway to intelligent trade,” said MATRADE Chairman, Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican. “By leveraging AI, Malaysian MSMEs can connect with global buyers that align with their offerings and growth goals.”
MIHAS 2025 is expected to host over 45,000 trade visitors from 45 countries, featuring 2,380 booths and showcasing 14 key Halal industry clusters—including food and beverage, Islamic finance, modest fashion, and more.
The event coincides with Malaysia’s chairmanship of ASEAN and will feature dedicated pavilions for ASEAN nations and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. According to MITI Deputy Secretary General (Industry), Datuk Hanafi Sakri, Malaysia’s Halal exports reached RM61.79 billion in 2024 — a 15% increase from the previous year.
The Halal sector is projected to contribute RM231 billion or 10.8% of Malaysia’s GDP by 2030, driven by strong global demand in sectors such as Halal food, finance, and Muslim-friendly travel. The global Halal market is valued at over USD 3 trillion and is expected to exceed USD 5 trillion by 2030.
Malaysia continues to lead the Global Islamic Economy Indicator (GIEI), maintaining its top position for 10 consecutive years, ahead of countries like Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, and the UAE.
In a bid to further expand its international presence, MIHAS will host its next overseas edition—MIHAS@Shanghai—in November 2025 as part of the China International Import Expo (CIIE). This move aims to tap into the rapidly growing demand for Halal-certified goods in China and East Asia.
Despite global trade uncertainties and tariff pressures, Malaysia remains committed to achieving at least 5% export growth in 2025, with a total export goal of RM1.58 trillion. Efforts are also being ramped up in emerging markets like Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East.
MITI Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, through his representative at the soft launch, emphasized Malaysia’s agile approach to trade diplomacy and the need to maintain supply chain resilience. He recently led discussions with the U.S. Trade Representative to address potential disruptions and reaffirm trade cooperation.
Since its inception in 2004, MIHAS has generated nearly RM30 billion in export sales and facilitated over 7,000 international buyers through its sourcing programme. The 2025 theme, “Pinnacle of Halal Excellence,” reflects Malaysia’s ambition to redefine the global Halal economy through innovation, inclusivity, and sustainable trade.
Leading Malaysian and global companies expected to participate include Kawan Food Bhd, QL Foods Sdn Bhd, DagangHalal Group, Crescent Foods, and global giants like Nestlé SA and Cargill Inc.
With strategic plans under the Halal Industry Master Plan 2030—including building a 700,000-strong talent pipeline—Malaysia is set to solidify its leadership in the global Halal ecosystem through MIHAS 2025.
Source: The Malaysian Reserve. | Photo Credit: Facebook MIHAS Malaysia.
