Dubai: Megat Iskandar, Trade Commissioner of Malaysia to the United Arab Emirates, highlighted the continuous growth of Malaysia's processed food exports to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region in 2024, emphasizing the strong demand for halal-certified food products.
According to Emirates News Agency, the UAE emerged as the leading destination for Malaysia's processed food in the region, accounting for 33.3 percent of total MENA exports. Exports to the UAE increased by 37.3 percent, rising from $125.1 million in 2023 to $171.8 million in 2024. Iskandar stated that this increase underscores the UAE's role as a strategic hub for Malaysian food products, facilitating market access across the GCC and beyond.
Iskandar made these remarks to the Emirates News Agency (WAM) during Gulfood 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. He noted that Malaysian exhibitors are showcasing a wide range of food and beverage (FandB) products, including sauces, pastes, spices, frozen food, ready-to-eat meals, snacks, beverages, and organic products. This offering reflects the quality of the Malaysian FandB sector, catering to an international audience.
The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) is leading a delegation of 91 Malaysian companies and four government agencies at the Gulfood show in Dubai. This participation underscores Malaysia's focus on expanding FandB exports and strengthening its presence in the global halal market.
Gulfood is recognized as the world's largest annual FandB trade exhibition, providing Malaysian businesses with a platform to connect with international buyers, establish partnerships, and showcase their products and services.
Dato' Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican, Chairman of MATRADE, commented that the event is about building strategic partnerships, brand recognition, and gaining market intelligence. He expressed confidence that their participation in Gulfood 2025 will enhance Malaysia's FandB presence globally.
Datuk Mohd Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz, CEO of MATRADE, added that the goal of participating in Gulfood 2025 is to empower Malaysian FandB companies to enter new international markets with innovative solutions. He mentioned that MATRADE provides support through business matching programs and market intelligence briefings to help companies achieve their export goals.