COVER STORY

@ Halal | September-October. 2025

• The halal sector contributes approximately 11 per cent to Malaysia ' s GDP, with notable growth in exports.

• MATRADE ' s global offices provide comprehensive market insights, helping exporters navigate the international trade landscape

• MATRADE embraces digital tools, enhancing accessibility and efficiency for Malaysian halal exporters

According to the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation( MATRADE) Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Export Acceleration, Abu Bakar Yusof, the nation ' s competitive edge lies in its globally trusted certification system, robust export ecosystem, and rapid adoption of digital trade platforms.

DISTINCTIVE ADVANTAGES

Abu Bakar emphasised that this system aligns Islamic law with stringent scientific standards, creating a certification logo revered across Muslim-majority countries and among discerning consumers worldwide.

" What truly sets Malaysian halal products apart

What truly sets Malaysian halal products apart is the unmatched reputation for integrity and trust linked to the Malaysian halal logo.

- Abu Bakar Yusof

is the unmatched reputation for integrity and trust linked to the Malaysian halal logo," he stated, underscoring the credibility that facilitates access to markets with high standards. The halal sector in Malaysia extends beyond food, encompassing pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, logistics, tourism, and Islamic finance. This diverse ecosystem not only highlights Malaysia ' s adaptability but also reflects its commitment to innovation across the halal value chain.

The Halal Industry Master Plan 2030( HIMP 2030) aims to establish Malaysia as a global leader in the halal economy, with efforts to streamline the halal certification process to just 15 working days, enhancing exporters ' agility in dynamic markets.

Recent statistics from Halal Development Corporation( HDC) highlight the sector’ s growth, with halal exports increasing from RM40.57 billion in 2019 to RM61.79 billion in 2024, representing a staggering 52.3 per cent rise.

Halal pharmaceuticals experienced an even more impressive growth of 133 per cent during the same period. Such remarkable figures reflect the sector ' s burgeoning potential.

SUPPORTING EXPORTERS

MATRADE plays a pivotal role in driving Malaysia ' s halal export agenda through a comprehensive strategy that connects local businesses with global opportunities.

Central to these efforts are trade missions and platforms, such as the Malaysia International Halal Showcase( MIHAS).

MIHAS, through its Exhibition, Knowledge Hub, International Sourcing Programme( INSP), MIHAS Awards, and Digital Platform components, serves as a bridge between Malaysian exporters and thousands of international buyers.

MATRADE ' s global network of 48 offices acts as an intelligence hub, continuously gathering market insights and regulatory guidance, among other functions. This vital information enables exporters to navigate complex global trade regulations and identify promising markets.

Furthermore, MATRADE ' s INSP connects Malaysian halal enterprises with vetted international buyers, maximising the potential for meaningful commercial partnerships.

Beyond matchmaking, MATRADE is committed to capacity-building initiatives, offering seminars, workshops, and mentorship programmes.

These initiatives empower small and medium-sized enterprises( SMEs) in the halal sector to enhance product quality and streamline export processes, thereby improving their competitiveness on the international stage.

Abu Bakar noted: " These initiatives provide invaluable face-to-face engagement opportunities critical for building trust and long-term business relationships."

EMBRACING DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Recognising the importance of digitalisation, MATRADE has integrated cutting-edge technology into its trade facilitation model.

The recent launch of the Madani Digital Trade( MDT) platform harnesses artificial intelligence( AI) to deliver smart trade matching and real-time market insights.