MIHAS 2023: Malaysia’s Grand Stage for Global Halal Innovation and Connection

As global interest in the halal industry surges, Malaysia is set to take center stage with the highly anticipated Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) 2023. Now in its 19th edition, MIHAS has evolved into the premier global event for halal innovation and connection, attracting businesses, innovators, and industry leaders worldwide. This year’s event promises to build on its stellar reputation by showcasing groundbreaking trends and offering unparalleled networking opportunities for those eager to tap into the growing halal market.

Hosted at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur, MIHAS 2023 has become more than an industry event. It is now recognized as a key platform for bridging global halal innovation with market opportunities. The theme of this year’s showcase, “Bridging the World with Halal,” reflects the central goal of connecting businesses and innovators from around the globe with Malaysia’s vibrant halal ecosystem.

Expanding Global Halal Innovation

With over 40 countries represented, MIHAS 2023 will offer a diverse range of halal products and services, from food and beverages to cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and even emerging sectors like halal fintech and e-commerce. The event stands out as a comprehensive hub for halal innovation connection, spotlighting businesses that prioritize ethical consumerism, sustainability, and inclusivity.

The global halal market has experienced tremendous growth over the last decade, driven by an increase in the Muslim population and a surge in demand for halal-certified goods and services beyond the food industry. Halal products are no longer limited to just food and beverages; they have now expanded into pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, personal care, tourism, and even financial services. At MIHAS, businesses will have the opportunity to explore and showcase these products, while gaining insights into the latest market trends and innovations.

The increasing demand for halal products worldwide has also been driven by non-Muslim consumers who associate halal with cleanliness, ethical production, and quality. As more countries embrace halal products, the global halal industry is estimated to be worth over $2.3 trillion, with expectations of further growth in the coming years. Malaysia, as a global leader in halal certification, plays a key role in facilitating this expansion.

Connecting Buyers and Sellers

One of the standout features of MIHAS is the International Sourcing Programme (INSP), organized by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE). The INSP offers a streamlined opportunity for global buyers to connect directly with Malaysia’s finest halal producers. This year, the INSP is expected to break records, with the highest number of international buyers already registered. The curated one-on-one meetings will help buyers discover high-quality halal products, positioning MIHAS as a crucial gateway for halal sourcing.

This program is vital for businesses seeking to establish long-term partnerships in the halal market. By matching international buyers with Malaysian halal businesses, the INSP allows companies to gain access to new markets and consumers. The event’s success in this regard is a testament to Malaysia’s leadership in the global halal industry.

MATRADE CEO, YBhg. Datuk Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz, emphasized the event’s significance, stating: “MIHAS is more than an exhibition—it is a testament to Malaysia’s leadership in the halal industry. This year, we are expanding into new sectors, showcasing the evolving nature of the halal economy and responding to increasing global demand.”

In previous years, the INSP has facilitated millions of dollars worth of trade deals, and this year, the program is expected to surpass these milestones. The focus on halal innovation connection will continue to drive interest from international businesses and investors, eager to engage with Malaysia’s well-established halal ecosystem.

Halal Industry Insights

In addition to trade opportunities, MIHAS 2023 will offer a rich educational experience through seminars, workshops, and panel discussions. Topics such as halal certification, halal tourism, halal fintech, and the rise of halal e-commerce will be explored in detail. Industry experts will provide actionable insights into the latest trends, challenges, and growth opportunities within the halal space. As demand for halal-certified products grows globally, staying ahead of the curve through industry knowledge becomes increasingly important.

These educational sessions are designed not only for seasoned professionals but also for newcomers looking to understand the intricacies of the halal industry. From understanding the various certifications that govern halal products to exploring the opportunities in emerging halal sectors, attendees will leave with practical knowledge they can apply to their businesses. Seminars will also cover the evolving consumer preferences that are shaping the future of the industry, providing businesses with a roadmap for success in a competitive market.

One of the major topics of discussion at this year’s event will be halal fintech, an area that has seen rapid development in recent years. As financial technology evolves, many companies are exploring ways to offer Islamic-compliant financial services to both Muslim and non-Muslim consumers. MIHAS 2023 will highlight the potential of this sector, exploring the latest innovations and opportunities in halal fintech.

Halal Industry as a Global Growth Driver

As the world seeks resilient industries amid ongoing economic challenges, the halal sector emerges as a beacon of growth. MIHAS 2023 offers a front-row view of this dynamic industry, showcasing innovations that prioritize ethical production, sustainability, and inclusivity—qualities that appeal to a broad spectrum of consumers, both Muslim and non-Muslim.

The halal industry’s growth is not only a reflection of increasing Muslim populations but also a response to changing consumer behavior. More consumers today are interested in products that align with their ethical values, including sustainability, animal welfare, and responsible sourcing. Halal products meet these criteria, which is why their appeal has broadened beyond the Muslim market.

Halal innovation is no longer limited to food and beverages; it now touches every sector, from pharmaceuticals and cosmetics to tourism and technology. This expansion opens new opportunities for businesses across the globe, particularly as consumers increasingly seek products that align with their values. The focus on halal innovation connection at MIHAS provides a platform for businesses to tap into this growing market.

In particular, halal tourism has emerged as a key sector, catering to Muslim travelers who seek accommodations and services that align with their religious beliefs. With countries across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East developing halal-friendly tourism infrastructure, the sector is poised for rapid growth. MIHAS 2023 will shine a spotlight on this burgeoning market, offering insights into how businesses can cater to the needs of Muslim travelers.

Malaysia’s Leadership in the Halal Industry

MIHAS 2023 is a testament to Malaysia’s continued leadership in the halal sector. As a country known for its rigorous halal standards and certification processes, Malaysia offers a robust platform for businesses looking to establish trust and credibility within the halal ecosystem. Malaysia’s halal certification is widely recognized as the gold standard, and businesses that earn it gain a competitive advantage in the global market.

The Malaysian government, through agencies like MATRADE, has played a crucial role in promoting the halal industry, both domestically and internationally. The country’s leadership in this space has solidified its position as a global hub for halal products, services, and innovation. MIHAS 2023 will further reinforce this position, offering a platform for businesses to connect, learn, and grow.

MIHAS 2023: A Must-Attend Event

If you’re interested in discovering cutting-edge halal innovations or forming meaningful connections with global players in the halal space, MIHAS 2023 is an event you can’t afford to miss. Whether you attend to learn, trade, or network, MIHAS serves as a launchpad for the future of the halal economy.

With so many sectors represented, from halal tourism to halal fintech, the event offers something for everyone. Attendees will leave with not only new business contacts but also a deeper understanding of the halal industry’s potential. MIHAS 2023 promises to be a landmark event, setting the tone for the future of halal innovation connection on the global stage. For more details, visit the official MIHAS website or contact the event’s secretariat. As Kuala Lumpur prepares to host this landmark event, excitement is building.