Kuala lumpur: The Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) 2025 has surpassed its initial target of 2,300 booths, with over 2,380 booths already confirmed from 45 countries, reflecting strong global demand for halal trade opportunities.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican stated that almost all booths for MIHAS 2025 have been taken up, and plans are being considered to expand further to 2,400. He emphasized the importance of the International Sourcing Programme (INSP), regarded as the ‘soul’ of MIHAS through its business-matching platform, which will once again play a crucial role this year.

Reezal Merican highlighted that MIHAS 2025, scheduled for September 17 to 20 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), is expected to attract over 45,000 trade visitors. The event will feature more than 2,300 booths from 45 countries. INSP will include pre-vetting and pre-arranged meetings to ensure that business-matching sessions at MIHAS 2025 are highly targeted and minimise mismatches.

The chairman noted a stronger participation from South America, particularly Brazil, which is expected to make a notable presence alongside buyers from Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay. This development reflects the government’s efforts to strengthen economic ties with South American countries, including through Malaysia’s engagement with BRICS.

Reezal Merican also mentioned that premium buyers from these South American countries will attend MIHAS 2025, marking a stronger presence compared to last year. He attributed this to intensive campaigns and overseas visits by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.

Beyond bilateral opportunities, MATRADE views MIHAS as a platform to reinforce ASEAN’s role in the global halal economy. The global halal economy is valued at US$3.5 trillion and is expected to grow to nearly US$5 trillion by 2030. The Muslim population in ASEAN countries alone constitutes almost 40 percent of the total 680 million. Halal products are increasingly sought not only by Muslims but also by non-Muslims due to their emphasis on hygiene, authenticity, safety, and sustainability.