The Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) opened its 2026 edition, drawing international focus to the expanding global halal economy. Indonesian Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka used the international platform to advocate for a streamlined and unified regional market framework across Southeast Asia.
Vice President Gibran Calls for ASEAN Halal Council Acceleration
During his address at the trade exhibition, Indonesian Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka urged member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to move faster in establishing a dedicated ASEAN Halal Council, according to ANTARA News. Gibran emphasized that harmonizing halal certification standards and regulatory processes is essential for reducing trade barriers and boosting regional competitiveness within the multi-billion-dollar global halal market.
The push for a unified council aims to resolve discrepancies in certification requirements among different Southeast Asian nations. Regional trade ministers have faced ongoing pressure from industry stakeholders to streamline cross-border inspections, which currently require separate approvals for exporters operating across multiple ASEAN jurisdictions.
MIHAS 2026 Highlights Global Halal Trade Expansion
Widely recognized as the world’s largest halal trade show, MIHAS continues to serve as a primary sourcing hub for manufacturers, buyers, and investors from both Muslim-majority and non-majority nations. According to reporting from Asia Food Journal, this year’s exhibition features thousands of booths spanning food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and modest fashion.
Exhibitors at the Kuala Lumpur event are showcasing innovations in supply chain transparency, including blockchain-enabled tracking systems designed to verify halal integrity from farm to fork. Analysts point to the growing integration of digital technology in halal logistics as a major theme driving buyer attendance at the 2026 showcase.
Economic Implications for Regional Supply Chains
The demand for standardized cross-border regulation stems from the rapid growth of the halal consumer base worldwide. By pressing for a formal ASEAN Halal Council, Indonesian officials intend to position Southeast Asia as a centralized hub for halal trade, countering fragmented standards that often slow down market entry for small and medium enterprises.
Industry groups participating in MIHAS 2026 are reviewing the proposed framework to determine how mutual recognition agreements between national certification bodies—such as Indonesia’s BPJPH and Malaysia’s JAKIM—might be accelerated under a broader regional umbrella.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main objective of MIHAS?
MIHAS (Malaysia International Halal Showcase) functions as a global trade platform connecting businesses, investors, and policymakers within the halal manufacturing, service, and supply chain sectors.
Why is an ASEAN Halal Council being proposed?
According to statements reported by ANTARA News, Indonesian Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka advocated for the council to harmonize certification standards, eliminate trade friction, and speed up cross-border commerce among ASEAN member nations.
Who organizes MIHAS?
The event is hosted annually in Malaysia, drawing international exhibitors and trade delegations representing diverse sectors of the global halal economy.
Related reading