Shanghai: The Malaysia International Halal Showcase in Shanghai (MIHAS@Shanghai) has successfully recorded a total sales value of RM1.24 billion from November 5 to 7. This milestone was achieved during the eighth China International Import Expo (CIIE), according to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Deputy Prime Minister has set a target to reach at least RM3 billion in sales by the end of the exhibition on November 10. “However, I am confident that we have three more days, and God willing, we will be able to achieve the target,” Dr Ahmad Zahid stated during a press conference, marking the conclusion of his four-day working visit to China.
Dr Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as the Rural and Regional Development Minister, attended the CIIE at the invitation of the Chinese government. The event, held at the National Exhibition and Convention Centre (NECC), serves as a platform for countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative to promote and export their goods and services to China.
The MIHAS@Shanghai sales were accrued through three primary components: the International Sourcing Programme (INSP) which contributed RM651.8 million, exhibitions accounting for RM271 million, and a memorandum of understanding amounting to RM315.3 million. The sales revenue breakdown indicates that 43% came from pre-packaged food products, followed by palm oil-based products (16%), beverages (12%), agricultural products (10%), and Islamic financial services (5%).
Dr Ahmad Zahid emphasized the importance of creating demand within the Chinese market from both premium and non-premium buyers. He advocated for continuous efforts employing not only business-to-business and business matching systems but also online methods.
MIHAS@Shanghai 2025 marks the second edition of MIHAS held overseas, following the success of MIHAS@Dubai last year. Dr Ahmad Zahid highlighted the significant participation of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in this year’s event, signifying Malaysia’s sixth appearance at the CIIE.
He further stressed the necessity for robust follow-up actions post-exhibition, not only by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) but also by the entrepreneurs themselves. Meanwhile, he also congratulated the Associated Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Malaysia for achieving RM29 million in sales at the CIIE so far.