Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation

KUALA LUMPUR, 15 FEBRUARY 2025 (SATURDAY) – The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) is set to spearhead a significant delegation of 90 Malaysian companies and four (4) government agencies at Gulfood 2025 in Dubai, UAE. This robust participation underscores Malaysia's strategic focus on expanding its food and beverage (F&B) exports and solidifying its presence in the global halal market.

Gulfood, recognized as the world’s largest annual F&B trade exhibition, provides an unparalleled platform for Malaysian businesses to connect with international buyers, establish strategic partnerships and showcase their diverse range of high-quality products and services. MATRADE’s leadership ensures a coordinated and impactful presence for Malaysian exhibitors at this prestigious event.

“Gulfood represents a critical platform for Malaysian F&B businesses to expand their reach and contribute to our national export targets.  Reflecting the strong demand for our high-quality and halal-certified food products, Malaysia’s processed food exports to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region continued their upward trajectory in 2024, reaching RM2.32 billion – a 3.8% increase from RM2.23 billion in 2023.  Notably, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) remained our leading destination in the region, accounting for 33.3% of total MENA exports with a significant surge of 37.3% to RM773.2 million in 2024 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. It's not just about showcasing products; it's about forging strategic partnerships, building brand recognition, and gaining valuable market intelligence.  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,” said YB Dato’ Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican, Chairman of MATRADE.  “We are confident that Malaysian companies will make a strong impression at Gulfood 2025.”

"Our participation in Gulfood 2025 is aimed at helping Malaysian food and beverage companies capitalize on the unique opportunities the event offers to expand into international markets and showcase their innovative products to a global audience. Gulfood provides an unparalleled platform for Malaysian exhibitors, offering direct access to key decision-makers and potential partners. With MATRADE's support through tailored business matching programmes and market intelligence briefings, our companies are equipped to maximize their exposure, build strategic connections and achieve significant export growth,” said YBhg. Datuk Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz, CEO of MATRADE.

Malaysian exhibitors will present a wide spectrum of F&B products, including sauces & pastes, spices & condiments, frozen food, ready-to-eat meals, snacks, beverages, dairy products, Halal-certified products and organic products. This diverse offering reflects the dynamism and quality of the Malaysian F&B sector and caters to a broad international audience.

MATRADE's support extends beyond facilitating participation at the Malaysia Pavilion. Through its Dubai office, MATRADE will actively connect Malaysian companies with key importers and distributors in the Middle East region, maximizing business opportunities and fostering valuable relationships. 

The participation of four (4) government agencies further underscores Malaysia's commitment to supporting its F&B industry.  These agencies will provide valuable resources and expertise to Malaysian exporters, facilitating their access to international markets and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.

Malaysia’s processed food exports to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region continued their upward trajectory in 2024, reflecting strong demand for high-quality and halal-certified food products. Total exports for the sector reached RM2.32 billion, marking a 3.8% increase from RM2.23 billion in 2023. This steady growth underscores Malaysia’s commitment to expanding its footprint in the global halal food market.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) remained the leading destination for Malaysia’s processed food in the region, accounting for 33.3% of total MENA exports. Exports to the UAE surged 37.3%, rising from RM563.3 million in 2023 to RM773.2 million in 2024. This significant increase highlights the UAE’s role as a strategic hub for Malaysian food products, facilitating wider market access across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and beyond.

This upward trend underscores the increasing global demand for Malaysian processed food products and highlights the country's strengthening position in the international F&B market.

MATRADE remains committed to supporting Malaysian businesses in capitalizing on this momentum, ensuring that the nation's F&B exports continue to thrive on the global stage.