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MALAYSIA’s exports of halal products soared to RM61.79 billion in 2024, reflecting a 15 per cent increase from RM53.72 billion recorded in 2023, according to Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
Delivering a speech ahead of the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) 2025, the minister underscored Malaysia’s enduring leadership in the global halal economy, having maintained the top position in the Global Islamic Economy Indicator for a tenth consecutive year—outpacing Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, and the United Arab Emirates.
“Malaysia’s edge lies in Islamic finance, halal food, and halal-certified media and recreation,” he stated.
Tengku Zafrul noted that the halal industry plays a significant role in the national economy, projected to contribute 10.8 per cent—or RM231 billion—to Malaysia’s Gross Domestic Product by 2030. This growth, he added, is underpinned by the country's robust halal ecosystem spanning sectors such as food, finance, and tourism.
The minister’s remarks were delivered on his behalf by the ministry’s Deputy Secretary-General (Industry), Datuk Hanafi Sakri.
He further emphasised the rising global appetite for halal goods, which is currently valued at over US$3 trillion and is expected to reach US$5 trillion by 2030.
“Malaysia’s leadership in this sector is a testament to our innovation and ongoing commitment,” he said.
Major global players in the halal market include Nestlé, Allana Group, Cargill Incorporated, and Fraser & Neave. Tengku Zafrul expressed pride in the international recognition of several Malaysian companies such as DagangHalal Group, Prima Quality Food Industries, Kawan Food Bhd, Crescent Foods, QL Foods Sdn Bhd, and Ayamas Food Corporation.
The 21st edition of MIHAS, themed *“Pinnacle of Halal Excellence,”* is set to take place from 17 to 20 September 2025 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC). The event is expected to be the most expansive and dynamic iteration yet, with increased international participation and a showcase of the latest halal products, services, and technologies.
According to Tengku Zafrul, the halal sector is also a key focus under Malaysia’s 2025 National Key Economic Priorities (PED), particularly during its ASEAN chairmanship.
“Malaysia is actively promoting the halal industry as a major driver of economic growth and regional cooperation,” he said.
To this end, MIHAS 2025 will feature a dedicated ASEAN halal pavilion, along with a special section for companies from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which serves as ASEAN’s strategic partner.
The internationalisation of MIHAS began last year in Dubai and will continue with an edition in Shanghai this coming November.
Since its inception in 2004, MIHAS has grown from 500 booths to over 2,100 in its latest edition. The 20th edition, Tengku Zafrul noted, marked a milestone for both MITI and the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), achieving record-breaking sales of RM4.3 billion.
To date, MIHAS has generated nearly RM30 billion in export sales, attracted over 12,000 halal industry players from Malaysia and abroad, and drawn more than 500,000 trade visitors globally.
In addition, its flagship International Sourcing Programme (INSP) has successfully matched over 7,000 international buyers with 10,000 Malaysian companies. - May 1, 2025
