13th edition of MIHAS expects 25,000 visitors

THE 13^th edition of the Malaysian International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) 2016 is scheduled from 30 March - 2 April 2016 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. Organized by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), the annual event will feature two main components – a trade fair and an International Sourcing Program (INSP).

About 26 countries from the ASEAN region, the Middle East, South Asia and Europe will be participating in MIHAS, considered the largest global Halal trade event. Manufacturers of Halal consumables, non-food products & services, food packaging, machinery & catering equipment, as well as representatives from the Islamic investment, banking and Takaful (cooperative system of reimbursement or repayment) will attend the fair. Over 640 booths are being set up for this year edition.

“Malaysia has earned international recognition as one of the pioneers in the global Halal marketplace. The Halal ecosystem is well developed in Malaysia, and this is a strong catalyst for the huge growth in the industry," said MATRADE's chief executive officer, Dato' Dzulkifli Mahmud.

This event underscores the potential in the global Halal market and supports local SMEs to expand into new frontiers. “Halal certified Bumiputera companies are a major contributor to the industry. Last year, MIHAS saw the participation of 108 Bumiputera companies. We hope to see this number increase significantly this year with more Bumiputera SMEs exhibiting their products at MIHAS," said Mr Dato' Dzulkifli.

Formerly known as the Incoming Buying Mission, the INSP is a matching program for Malaysian companies designed to increase sales of Malaysian Halal products and services. Last year, it generated some RM443.2 million in sales while sales from the trade fair were RM655.8 million.

About 500 Malaysian companies will be matched with 350 buyers from 41 countries on 29 March.

Organizers are expecting over 25,000 visitors to attend MIHAS 2016.