MALAYSIA is making a major push to expand its food and beverage (F&B) exports at Gulfood 2025, the world’s largest F&B trade exhibition, in Dubai.
The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) is leading 90 companies and four government agencies, underscoring the country’s ambition to dominate the global halal food market.
“Gulfood represents a critical platform for Malaysian F&B businesses to expand their reach and contribute to our national export targets,” said MATRADE Chairman Dato’ Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday.
Malaysia’s processed food exports to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region hit RM2.32 billion in 2024, a 3.8% increase from RM2.23 billion in 2023.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) remains Malaysia’s top market, accounting for 33.3% of total MENA exports. Sales surged 37.3% to RM773.2 million in 2024, up from RM563.3 million the previous year.
“This upward trend and the UAE’s role as a strategic hub highlight the increasing global demand for Malaysian processed food and our strengthening position in the international F&B market,” Reezal said.
Malaysian exhibitors will showcase sauces, spices, frozen food, ready-to-eat meals, snacks, beverages, dairy, and organic products—all designed to capture new markets.
MATRADE’s Dubai office will connect businesses with key importers and distributors, helping companies expand beyond the UAE into the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.
“We are confident that our participation in Gulfood 2025 will significantly boost Malaysia’s F&B presence on the global stage and drive growth in this vital sector,” he added.
With government-backed support and a thriving halal industry, Malaysia is set to strengthen its presence in the lucrative global F&B trade. – February 16, 2025.
