04 @ HalalXtra September-October . 2023
04 @ HalalXtra September-October . 2023
COVER STORY
MIHAS 2023 :
Proposition of value
MIHAS by MATRADE fosters genuine halal business partnerships and boosts Malaysia ’ s economy
Datuk Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz
BY FATIHAH MANAF
THE MALAYSIA International Halal Showcase ( MIHAS ) 2022 prof o u n d l y impacted Malaysia ’ s trade performance , leading to a substantial boost in the country ’ s exports of halal products and services . With over 32,000 visitors and a remarkable display of more than 1,000 booths , the event generated an impressive total sales figure of RM2.39 billion .
The showcase encompassed halal products and services from 13 clusters , including e-Commerce , food and beverages ( F & B ), cosmetics and personal care , pharmaceuticals , food technology , and Islamic finance .
The International Sourcing Programme ( INSP ), held in conjunction with MIHAS last year , proved to be successful , virtually and physically . This remarkable event generated an impressive RM745.2 million in sales , bringing together 389 foreign buyers skillfully matched with 510 local sellers . The achievement is a testament to the fact that MIHAS provides a valuable platform for genuine business partnerships .
“ With an impressive track record , it is evident that MIHAS 2022 played a crucial role in boosting Malaysia ’ s halal exports and attracting foreign buyers .
Hence , it contributed to the overall growth of the country ’ s trade performance ,” said Chief Executive Officer of Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation ( MATRADE ) Datuk Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz ,.
“ Despite the decline in trade growth compared to the previous year , events like MIHAS will undoubtedly contribute to ensuring the continuous climb of our exports .”
Hosted by the Ministry of Investment , Trade and Industry ( MITI ) and organised by MATRADE , MIHAS is the world ' s largest and leading halal exhibition . The flagship event at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre ( MITEC ) in Kuala Lumpur is on Sept 12-15 , 2023 . Embracing the modern era of global connectivity , the exhibition will have a simultaneous digital presence , ensuring a far-reaching and impactful engagement with worldwide audiences .
With its grand scale and diverse range of halal products and services on display , MIHAS continues to foster trade opportunities , promote halal businesses , and solidify Malaysia ’ s position as a critical player in the halal industry on the global stage .
MIHAS 2023 AIMS TO ENHANCE MALAYSIA ’ S HALAL TRADES
The potential effects of MIHAS 2023 on Malaysia ’ s trade performance and critical industries depend on several
Attendees can physically participate in MIHAS 2023 or virtually log in from anywhere .
factors . These include the scale and success of the event , the participation of foreign buyers and exhibitors , and the efficacy of business collaborations and follow-ups .
“ For this year , we are proud to announce that our booths are almost 100 per cent sold out . We look forward to a successful MIHAS 2023 ,” shared Mustafa .
“ At MATRADE , we are resolute in our commitment to continuously pursue trade promotion efforts and provide unwavering support to our local sellers throughout their export journey . This steadfast focus will contribute to the country ’ s growth and development of key industries .”
Mustafa said while MIHAS 2023 would showcase a wide range of halal products and services , MATRADE actively encouraged local businesses to participate in their International Sourcing Programme ( INSP ). According to him , this unique opportunity allows local sellers to engage and establish connections with potential foreign buyers . By increasing participation in this business matching programme , they expect to witness the profound impact of MIHAS on the country ’ s economy .
“ All in all , the true impact of MIHAS can only be quantified once we have the figures . However , based on the success of the previous year ’ s event , it is poised to make a resounding impact worldwide . We surpassed our sales target last year and aim to achieve our target of RM2.1 billion this year , insyaAllah .”
UNITING NATIONS IN THE WORLD ’ S LARGEST HALAL SHOWCASE
When asked about the response towards MIHAS 2023 , Mustafa revealed that both local and international exhibitors had responded favourably to MATRADE ’ s invitations .
" We target more country pavilions in MIHAS 2023 compared to eight in the 18th edition of MIHAS last year . The increased participation indicates the exhibitors ’ strong interest in participating in this world ’ s largest halal showcase ,” said Mustafa .
He emphasised that this year ’ s MIHAS would set a remarkable record , with the participation of all States in Malaysia .
“ To reiterate , compared to MIHAS 2022 last year , only 32 participating countries occupied at most one or two