Spectacular Success at Malaysia’s 2023 Food & Drinks Showcase
The inaugural edition of Food & Drinks Malaysia by SIAL, held from 4-6 July 2023, at the Malaysia International Trade & Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur, marked a significant milestone for Malaysia’s food and beverage (F&B) industry. The three-day event attracted over 8,000 trade visitors from 46 countries, showcasing the country’s growing influence and strategic position in Asia’s food sector.
The event featured more than 450 local and international brands from 22 countries, highlighting Malaysia’s capacity to attract global players and foster international collaborations. The exhibition included international pavilions from countries such as China, India, Korea, and Turkey, alongside local pavilions led by key government agencies and business groups including the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS) and Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA).
The success of the event is underscored by the estimated USD 159.5 million (approximately €148 million) in generated business value, reflecting the strong interest and investment in Malaysia’s food and beverages market.
Innovative categories and trends in Asia
Malaysia’s strategic role in the Asian market is further supported by data from recent reports. In Asia, soft drinks continue to lead in food innovation, accounting for 19.2% of innovations in 2023. Other dynamic categories include appetizer grocery products, savory frozen products, and dairy products. These trends align with the broader Asian market’s focus on premium pleasure and well-being, driven by innovations in energy and well-being products.
Visitor engagement and satisfaction
The show not only attracted a high number of visitors but also achieved high satisfaction rates. According to the post-show report, 94% of visitors were involved in the decision-making process for their companies, with 82% stating they made significant business connections during the event. The primary reasons for attending included networking, sourcing new suppliers, and exploring new developments in the industry.
Strategic conferences and forums
Alongside the exhibition, the Food Conference and Regional Halal Forum provided platforms for knowledge exchange and industry insights. The Food Conference, under the theme “The Next Frontier,” explored disruptive protein technologies and sustainable solutions in the food sector. Meanwhile, the Regional Halal Forum brought together key representatives from the Asia Pacific region to discuss halal certification processes and market opportunities.
Future prospects and expectations
Looking ahead, SIAL Malaysia aims to build on the success of its first edition by increasing visitor and exhibitor numbers. The upcoming 2024 edition, scheduled for July 2-4 at MITEC, promises to offer even greater opportunities for networking, business growth, and innovation in the F&B industry.
SIAL Malaysia’s impact on the Asian market is a testament to the country’s strategic positioning and robust F&B sector. As Malaysia continues to push the boundaries of innovation and collaboration, it is set to become a powerhouse in the regional and global food industry.
For more information on the next edition of Food & Drinks Malaysia by SIAL, visit Food & Drinks Malaysia.
Featured image from Food & Drinks Malaysia 2023 edition.
