MALAYSIA, AN EMERGING LEADER IN HALAL AND SEAFOOD IMPORTS

Malaysia imported around €1.13 billion worth of seafood in 2023, confirming its position as a leading import destination in Asia. One clear example is the growing demand for Norwegian salmon and trout: in 2019, the country imported over 4,000 tonnes of these high-end products, worth approximately €24.8 million, marking a 20% rise in volume compared to the previous year. This trend is further driven by the rapid growth of Malaysia’s full-service restaurant sector, expected to surpass 9,400 outlets by 2026. With consumers becoming increasingly health-conscious and drawn to international cuisine, there is a strong appetite for high-quality, sustainably sourced seafood—an area where EMEA exporters can thrive.

Halal products fuel market expansion

In parallel, Malaysia’s halal market is booming. Halal exports reached approximately €12 billion in 2022, contributing 7.4% to the national GDP. Food and beverage products are central to this growth. Dates remain a key product in the halal food sector, with Egypt leading global production at 1.73 million tonnes annually, followed by Saudi Arabia (1.61 million tonnes) and Algeria (1.25 million tonnes). These figures highlight the strength of EMEA producers in supplying staple halal goods to Malaysia.

Beyond dates, EMEA countries such as Turkey, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Morocco, and Tunisia are recognized for their halal-certified meats, processed foods, and beverages. With Malaysia serving as a regional reference for halal standards, and with rising demand in neighboring countries like Indonesia and Singapore, the momentum for certified, safe, and quality halal products is undeniable.

 

A strategic trade platform for Southeast Asia

Food and Drinks Malaysia by SIAL serves as a regional business gateway for the entire Southeast Asian food industry. The event draws high levels of trade visitors from Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Indonesia, markets that are actively seeking seafood and halal imports. For EMEA exporters, the event offers a unique opportunity to establish new supply routes, diversify beyond traditional partners, and access one of the fastest-growing regions in the world. Backed by the global SIAL network, this platform is key to building long-term, high-value partnerships across Asia.

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