Malaysia (Commonwealth Union)_ Malaysian food companies, facilitated by the national trade promotion agency MATRADE, are gearing up to showcase their products at the esteemed Gulfood event in Dubai, renowned as the world’s largest F&B show. Over the course of five days, 82 Malaysian enterprises will take the spotlight, presenting an array of offerings including frozen foods like ready-to-eat meals, spiced fish and chicken, ethnic or traditional cuisine, instant powdered juice, food ingredients, beverages, confectionery, sauces, as well as healthy and organic foods.
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The robust economy and burgeoning tourism sector of the UAE have fostered a robust demand for diverse international cuisines, with Malaysian halal food gaining traction for its distinctive fusion of flavors and spices. Notably, the UAE has witnessed a steady rise in imports of processed food from Malaysia, reaching Dh 460.4 million in 2023, predominantly driven by products such as cocoa and cocoa preparations, prepared cereals and flour preparations, processed seafood, and dairy items. Megat Iskandar, the Trade Commissioner of Malaysia to the UAE, attributes this remarkable trade performance to the stringent quality standards upheld by Malaysian products and the increasing demand for healthy and functional food. He said, “Stringent quality of Malaysian products coupled with demand for healthy and functional food has contributed to the sterling trade performance”.
In line with global trends, Malaysia is increasingly embracing organic farming practices, paving the way for a diverse range of health foods, including low-calorie, fiber/nutrient-enriched products, fruit juices, and herbal items. The country’s rich traditional herbs and resources serve as a foundation for the development of novel products tailored for global markets, catering to the evolving preferences of consumers who prioritize convenience, variety, and healthier options. Iskandar stated, “Today’s consumers seek convenience, variety, and healthier options. To meet these changing demands, Malaysian companies are encouraged to stay abreast of consumer trends and prioritize customer feedback.”
As sustainability gains prominence, the Malaysian food and beverage industry is actively seeking innovative solutions to reduce its environmental impact, particularly in minimizing single-use plastics. Initiatives such as adopting biodegradable packaging materials, promoting recycling, and encouraging the use of reusable containers are being embraced to align with global sustainability objectives. Amidst this landscape, the burgeoning e-commerce sector in the UAE presents new avenues for Malaysian food producers to reach consumers directly. Recognizing this opportunity, Malaysian companies are eager to leverage the growing digital market to expand their reach and accessibility to consumers. Iskandar said, “Malaysian companies are keen to take advantage of this growing sector”.
Furthermore, the participation of numerous small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) underscores Malaysia’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth in the F&B sector. MATRADE continues its support for SMEs by providing tailored assistance aimed at nurturing new exporters and enabling existing ones to scale up their operations. Through capacity-building programs, customized initiatives, and various trade promotion activities, MATRADE endeavors to empower Malaysian SMEs to thrive in the global marketplace.
