Malaysia has set an ambitious target of achieving RM1 billion (Dh819.7 million) in sales through Mihas@Dubai 2024, the international edition of its flagship Malaysia International Halal Showcase (Mihas). The event, which made its debut in Dubai on Monday, marks Malaysia’s first effort to expand its premier halal trade platform to global shores.
The move underscores Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening its foothold in the global halal market, which is valued at $2.71 trillion in 2024 and projected to nearly double to $5.91 trillion by 2033, according to IMARC data. Key factors driving this growth include a rising global Muslim population, increased awareness of halal dietary standards, and the expansion of e-commerce.
Malaysia is a recognized leader in the halal industry, bolstered by its stringent certification standards and the efforts of agencies like JAKIM (Department of Islamic Development Malaysia) and the Halal Development Corporation Berhad (HDC). The country’s halal sector contributes nearly 10% to its GDP, with exports valued at $12.89 billion in 2022. By 2030, Malaysia’s halal industry is projected to reach $113.2 billion, according to the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade).
Speaking at the inaugural event in Dubai, Malaysia’s Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi highlighted the strategic importance of hosting Mihas in the UAE. “Dubai serves as a vital trading hub for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. This expansion reflects our vision to globalize the halal industry and introduce it to new markets,” he said.
Dubai’s location and pro-business environment provide an ideal platform for connecting Malaysian exporters with partners and buyers in the region, where demand for halal-certified products continues to rise. Mihas@Dubai has attracted over 200 Malaysian exhibitors, showcasing a wide array of halal products, including organic foods, sustainable cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and logistics solutions.
The event also reinforces Malaysia’s focus on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which form the backbone of its economy. Reezal Merican Naina Merican, Chairman of Matrade, emphasized the importance of giving these enterprises a global stage. “These SMEs play a crucial role in diversifying Malaysia’s export base and driving innovation in the halal sector,” he said.
With 20 successful editions in Malaysia, Mihas has earned international acclaim for promoting halal-certified products across various industries. Its expansion into Dubai demonstrates Malaysia’s long-term commitment to positioning itself as a global leader in the halal economy while fostering trade partnerships in the MENA region.
By leveraging Dubai’s global connectivity, Malaysia aims to elevate its halal industry further, supporting sustainable growth and ethical practices in the burgeoning market.
