MIHAS 2026: Malaysia's Premier Halal Trade Showcase Set to Attract Global Participation

The 22nd Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS 2026) is set to commence on September 23, 2026, at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur. This year’s event, themed “Shaping Trust, Driving Resilience,” is expected to attract around 50,000 visitors from 45 countries, showcasing products from 1,700 companies across around 2,000 booths.

Organized by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) and hosted by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), MIHAS 2026 aims to achieve a sales target of RM5 billion ($1.23 billion), an increase from the initial target of RM4.5 billion. MATRADE Chief Executive Officer Dato’ Indera Abu Bakar Yusof attributed this optimistic forecast to strong interest from international buyers, noting that over 500 applications from buyers and importers had already been received, surpassing the goal of 300.

“With MIHAS 2026 expected to welcome 50,000 visitors, the AI system will provide every registered participant with a dedicated AI agent and personalized support.”Dato’ Indera Abu Bakar Yusof, CEO of MATRADE

MIHAS 2026 will cover 14 sectors within the halal economy, including food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and Islamic finance. A highlight of this year’s showcase is the introduction of an AI-powered system designed to enhance participant engagement. According to Abu Bakar, the AI system will provide every registered participant with a dedicated AI agent and personalized support to discover businesses, engage with exhibitors, and build relevant connections.

This AI system will facilitate business matching, provide multilingual support, assist with exhibition navigation, and manage meetings, thereby enhancing the overall experience for exhibitors and visitors alike. The International Sourcing Programme (INSP) is expected to facilitate around 4,000 meetings between 450 international buyers, including 50 premium buyers from markets such as Canada, Chile, and Brazil, and approximately 600 Malaysian exporters.

“The target for MIHAS 2026 is RM5 billion due to strong interest from international buyers.”Dato’ Indera Abu Bakar Yusof, CEO of MATRADE

Additionally, MIHAS 2026 will feature a Knowledge Hub aimed at providing exporters, particularly micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, with vital trade intelligence and information on global market opportunities. The event will also include the Women in Export pavilion, showcasing 80 exhibitors, and daily culinary demonstrations featuring 32 chefs, up from 15 last year.

Since its inception in 2004, MIHAS has evolved into a significant international platform for the halal industry, fostering connections among businesses and buyers worldwide.