MIHAS 2026 Opens with Major International Sourcing Programme
The 22nd Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) 2026 opened on 23 September at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur.
The event began with its signature International Sourcing Programme (INSP). This year’s programme features more than 4,000 pre-arranged B2B meetings.
The meetings connect Malaysian exporters with international buyers from 58 economies.
Around 450 international buyers are participating in this year’s programme. This includes 50 premium buyers.
The initiative is designed to create direct commercial opportunities for Malaysian businesses. It also aims to connect local exporters with high-intent buyers across established and emerging markets.
International Buyers Expand MIHAS Reach
The INSP brings together buyers from both traditional and non-traditional markets.
First-time participating economies include Comoros and Rwanda. Their participation provides direct access to Malaysia’s established Halal ecosystem.
Northeast Asia and ASEAN remain key sources of international buyers. Africa is also gaining greater representation as an emerging growth market.
The programme reflects growing international demand for Malaysian Halal products and services.
According to the organisers, the global Halal market is projected to approach USD 10 trillion by 2030.
Premium Buyers Support Export Diversification
Premium buyers are also contributing to the programme’s commercial focus.
According to MIHAS, the 50 premium buyers have a combined annual revenue of nearly RM700 billion.
Their procurement interests extend beyond food and beverages. They include specialised ingredients, biotechnology, Islamic finance, logistics and education.
The broader buyer mix supports Malaysia’s efforts to diversify exports. It also creates opportunities for Malaysian businesses to participate in international supply chains.
Dato’ Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican, Chairman of MATRADE, said: “The INSP represents the core engine and ‘soul’ of MIHAS. With international buyers actively seeking high-quality Malaysian Halal products and services, our local SMEs must take full advantage of this platform. This strategic initiative has always served as a direct catalyst for local businesses, unlocking their access to high-value global trade networks and driving sustainable, long-term export growth”.
He added: “The commercial calibre of these buyers directly advances Malaysia’s export diversification. With premium buyers representing nearly RM700 billion in combined annual revenue, procurement spans beyond standard F&B into specialised ingredients, biotechnology, Islamic finance, logistics, and education, driving our shift toward services-led exports and deeper global supply chain integration”.
Physical and Virtual B2B Meetings
The physical INSP takes place on 23 September 2026 at MITEC.
A virtual component is running from 1 April to 30 November 2026. Up to 150 international virtual buyers are expected to participate remotely.
The combined format allows Malaysian exporters to engage with buyers through both in-person and digital meetings.
MIHAS 2026 Covers 14 Halal Sectors
MIHAS has grown into an international platform for Halal trade since its launch in 2004.
The showcase covers 14 sectors. These include food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, Islamic finance, modest fashion, personal care, technology and services.
Muslim-friendly tourism is also among the sectors represented.
The 22nd edition carries the theme “Shaping Trust, Driving Resilience”.
This year’s programme focuses on regulated-by-design governance and technology-enabled trade.
MIHAS is hosted by Malaysia’s Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), with the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) serving as organiser.
The showcase is also recognised as a Guinness World Records holder.
MATRADE Supports Malaysian Exporters
Established on 1 March 1993, MATRADE serves as Malaysia’s national trade promotion agency under MITI.
Its role includes helping Malaysian exporters develop and expand international markets.
Through its trade promotion activities, MATRADE supports Malaysian-made products and services in global markets.
The MIHAS 2026 International Sourcing Programme continues this role by creating direct connections between Malaysian exporters and international buyers.
