MIHAS 2024 Edition Set to Redefine the Global Halal Industry

KUALA LUMPUR, Tuesday, 17 September 2024 – The excitement is palpable as MIHAS 2024 opens its doors, positioning itself to become the largest edition yet. Already recognized as the world’s largest Halal trade fair, this year’s event promises to exceed expectations with over 40,000 visitors and over 2,000 booths representing businesses from 66 countries. Hosted by the Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry of Malaysia (MITI) and organized by MATRADE, MIHAS 2024 is taking place from 17 to 20 September at MITEC Kuala Lumpur, offering an unmatched platform for the global Halal industry.

A Powerful Opening Ceremony

The opening ceremony set an exhilarating tone for the event, with Yang Berhormat Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Bin Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry of Malaysia, noting MIHAS’s impact since its inception in 2004. “MIHAS has elevated Malaysia’s profile on the global stage, benefiting nearly 17,000 Malaysian exporters and generating RM25 billion in sales. It continues to draw international attention and drive growth in the Halal sector,” he remarked. This year, MIHAS targets an impressive RM3.5 billion in sales.

Countries like China, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, and Thailand are leading the international charge at MIHAS 2024, with exhibitors from every continent—Asia, Africa, Europe, North and South America, and Oceania—showcasing products and services. This truly global representation underscores MIHAS’s standing as a premier international event.

Guinness World Record Achievement

One of the most exciting highlights is the fact that MIHAS 2024 has claimed the Guinness World Records Award for the largest attendance at a Halal trade show, with 38,566 visitors at MIHAS 2023. This achievement is a reflection of the event’s consistent growth. “MIHAS 2024 aims to surpass last year’s figures, cementing itself as the ultimate showcase for the Halal economy,” said Yang Berhormat Dato’ Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican, Chairman of MATRADE.

Innovation, Sustainability, and Business Networking

MIHAS 2024 goes beyond just business. Innovation and sustainability are key themes this year, with a focus on advancing the Halal industry through technology. MATRADE’s ongoing commitment to tech-driven solutions is evident, having already won the 2022 WTPO Award for Best Use of Information Technology for the successful virtual edition of MIHAS 2021. Last year, MIHAS gained further recognition from the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI), solidifying its status as a world-class event.

Yang Berhormat Dato’ Seri Reezal Merican emphasized the importance of technology in shaping the future of Halal industries: “This year’s event showcases the latest innovations in food technology, packaging, and sustainability, ensuring MIHAS remains the premier platform for connecting industry leaders.”

Honoring Industry Leaders

A significant highlight of the event was the Anugerah Khas Tokoh Pembangunan Halal Negara, awarded to Yang Amat Berbahagia Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi. This special honor recognizes his contributions to the Halal industry and his role in inspiring future generations of leaders.

MIHAS 2024 Edition: Expanding Global Reach

This year, MIHAS expanded to include a new category: Halal Food Ingredients. With over 2,000 booths representing 13 clusters, MIHAS offers an immersive experience for visitors. The International Sourcing Programme (INSP) is set to drive substantial business transactions, facilitating 330 international buyers to connect with 800 Malaysian sellers, aiming for a sourcing value of RM1.7 billion.

Additionally, the Hosted Buyers Programme will facilitate strategic partnerships, connecting 50 local buyers with international exhibitors, with 250 pre-arranged business meetings from 17 to 19 September. “Our goal is to ensure that carefully selected buyers are matched with exhibitors based on their industry needs, creating meaningful connections,” noted Yang Berbahagia Datuk Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz, CEO of MATRADE.

Knowledge Hub and MIHAS Awards

On 19 September, MIHAS will host its Knowledge Hub, featuring the “Meet the Experts” sessions where industry professionals share their insights and expertise, fostering innovation and collaboration in the Halal economy.

The final day will feature the prestigious MIHAS Awards, recognizing excellence in various categories, including the Excellence Products & Services Awards, Innovative Products & Services Awards, and the Sustainability Award, which honors companies dedicated to incorporating sustainability into their operations.

The Global Expansion of MIHAS 2024 Edition

Looking ahead, MIHAS@Dubai will make its debut at the Middle East Organic and Natural Product Expo from 18 to 20 November 2024, further expanding the showcase’s global footprint. With a sales target of RM1.0 billion and over 200 booths, this initiative underscores MIHAS’s international ambitions, positioning it as a gateway for global businesses.

A Gateway to New Markets

MIHAS 2024 continues to push boundaries, offering a platform not only for industry networking but also for businesses to explore non-traditional markets, including Latin America and Africa. This strategic expansion reflects Malaysia’s growing influence in the global Halal economy, positioning it as a leader in innovation and market access.

As MIHAS 2024 unfolds, the event is set to inspire the next wave of Halal industry leaders and entrepreneurs, offering unmatched opportunities for business growth, knowledge sharing, and global collaboration. Whether you’re an industry professional or an emerging player, MIHAS remains the premier destination for anyone looking to shape the future of the Halal market.