MIHAS 2025 in Malaysia Showcases China’s Pivotal Role in Advancing Global Halal Trade

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – The 21st Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS 2025), held from September 17 to 20 in Kuala Lumpur, underscored China’s growing prominence as a key player in the global halal market, driven by its vast consumer base and increasing demand for Muslim-friendly products.

Reezal Merican Naina Merican, Chairman of the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), highlighted China’s significant participation at MIHAS 2025 during a briefing at the event’s opening. “China plays a huge role in the global halal market,” Reezal Merican stated, noting that Chinese buyers represented the largest group at this year’s expo, with 39 companies in attendance.

The event, organized by MATRADE, attracted 300 international physical buyers and 150 virtual buyers from 50 countries, including 50 premium buyers such as major importers and leading hypermarket chains. These buyers engaged with 600 Malaysian exporters through MATRADE’s International Sourcing Program (INSP), which facilitated over 4,000 one-on-one business meetings. The program aims to generate sales of approximately RM2.5 billion (US$596 million) while fostering long-term partnerships.

“These meetings are not just transactions but opportunities to build enduring business links in high-value markets,” said Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz, MATRADE’s Chief Executive Officer. “This is how we position Malaysian halal products and services as trusted global brands.”

Malaysia, a leading exporter of halal products, counts China among its top markets alongside the United States and Singapore. The growing demand for halal goods in China, Asia’s largest economy, has prompted MATRADE to expand MIHAS’s footprint into the Chinese market. Following a successful debut in Dubai in November 2024, MIHAS will participate in the China International Import Expo in Shanghai later this year to further strengthen trade ties.

MIHAS 2025 showcased a wide range of halal products and services, aligning with Islamic principles, and highlighted Malaysia’s role as a global hub for halal trade. The event also served as a platform for exploring opportunities in sectors such as food and beverage, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and tourism, with a focus on innovation and sustainability.

As the global halal market continues to expand, the collaboration between Malaysia and China at MIHAS 2025 signals a strategic partnership poised to drive economic growth and enhance Malaysia’s position as a gateway to the ASEAN halal market.