MIHAS 2026 Eyes Over RM5 Bln In Potential Business, Boosts Halal Exports
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 22 (Bernama) -- The 22nd edition of the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) 2026 is targeting more than RM5 billion in potential business, while expanding access for Malaysian halal products to international markets.
Organised by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) and coordinated by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), the event is also expected to attract more than 50,000 visitors from 45 countries.
MATRADE chief executive officer Datuk Indera Abu Bakar Yusof said the main objective of this year's showcase is to promote local halal products in international markets, given their significant potential to contribute to national exports.
“According to the latest figures released by the Department of Statistics, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) generated RM215 billion in exports last year.
“Their contribution stood at 14.7 per cent, up 10.5 per cent, showing that MSMEs are resilient and have the capacity to continue expanding in export and international markets, including the halal sector,” he said on Bernama TV's Apa Khabar Malaysia programme.
Abu Bakar said MATRADE recorded RM68 billion in halal product exports last year and is targeting an increase to more than RM80 billion by 2030, in line with the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP).
Against this backdrop, this year's showcase will focus on attracting more local MSMEs and halal entrepreneurs, with 70 per cent of participants comprising local businesses and the remaining 30 per cent foreign companies.
He said MIHAS 2026 will also introduce a new component, Women in Export (WiEX), aimed at empowering local women to expand their businesses into international markets.
This brings the number of core components at MIHAS 2026 to six: the exhibition, International Sourcing Programme (INSP), Knowledge Hub, WiEX, MIHAS Awards and Hosted Buyer Programme.
“Another new component this year is the introduction of artificial intelligence technology to enhance customer service and improve the visitor experience,” he said.
An application known as the MIHAS AI App has been introduced, leveraging the technology to provide a personalised intelligent agent to assist exhibitors, buyers and visitors.
The event will also serve as a platform for new entrepreneurs to gain knowledge about exporting and explore opportunities in international markets.
Abu Bakar said the global halal market is expected to continue expanding, from US$3 trillion to US$5 trillion by 2030, offering significant market opportunities.
MIHAS 2026 will be held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) for four days from Sept 23, bringing together 1,700 companies across 2,400 booths.
-- BERNAMA