Source: The Edge Malaysia

Kawaguchiko, Japan – Malaysia is actively pursuing expansion opportunities for its halal industry in 2025, with particular focus on emerging markets and China, according to Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican.

The country has developed specific strategies to enhance its halal sector, including a comprehensive review of trading relationships. “We’re analyzing partners contributing to both our trade surplus and deficit,” Reezal Merican explained. “For those at the bottom of our deficit list, we’re implementing ‘retain and regain’ missions to potentially ‘zerorise’ these deficits.”

In a significant strategic move, Malaysia will host the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) in Shanghai from November 5-10, 2025, concurrent with the China International Import Expo (CIIE). This partnership offers tremendous exposure opportunities, as Reezal Merican noted: “While MIHAS typically attracts around 40,000 trade visitors, CIIE draws approximately 400,000, creating exceptional visibility for MIHAS participants.”

The chairman highlighted the substantial growth potential of the halal industry, referencing the Halal Industry Master Plan 2030 (HIMP 2030), which values the global halal market at approximately US$5 trillion (RM21.6 trillion). “With nearly two billion Muslims worldwide, awareness around halal products continues to grow significantly,” he stated.

Reezal Merican emphasized that halal certification extends beyond religious requirements: “Halal represents ‘halalan toyyiban,’ encompassing hygiene, cleanliness, safety, traceability, and often sustainability standards.” This comprehensive approach has increased international interest in halal-certified products due to their rigorous quality assurance processes.

Matrade remains committed to achieving a minimum 5% export growth toward its RM1.58 trillion halal export target for this year. “That is a humble target. Of course there will be challenges, but InsyaAllah we hope we can reach RM1.58 trillion this year,” the chairman concluded.

Original Articles:

theedgemalaysia.com. (n.d.).Malaysia eyes emerging markets, China for halal industry expansion in 2025 — Matrade chairman. Retrieved May 1, 2025, from https://theedgemalaysia.com/node/753630