Kuala Lumpur: The 18th Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) kicked off on Wednesday with the participation of seven Kuwaiti companies in the pavilion of the Public Authority for Industry (PAI), among nearly 400 companies around the world.

Speaking to KUNA, Business Development Manager at Kuwaiti Danish Dairy Company (KDD) Hala Badra said that PAI is always working to create a household atmosphere with the participation of Kuwaiti companies and factories abroad, within a pavilion that displays all Kuwaiti products.

KDD's contribution in MIHAS teaches them about the opportunities available in the Malaysian market, its challenges and conditions, including the Malaysian experience in the halal industry and its requirements, she stated.

The Kuwait pavilion, with an area of 234 square meters, is characterized by its classic design and is considered one of the largest pavilions in the exhibition, she pointed out, underlining how crucial it is to participate in such exhibitions and attending the events to develop brands and provide a platform for their marketing.

The Kuwaiti companies participating in MIHAS are KDD, Al-Seedawi Sweets Factories Company, Ahlai Group Company, Jana Dates Company, Mujezat Al-Shifa Company, Kuwait Packing Materials Manufacturing Company, and Organic Honey factory.

Meanwhile, the CEO of Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) Mohd Mustafa welcomed in a press conference all the countries participating in the exhibition, stating that the exhibition is a global platform for creating communication networks between companies and factories in the halal industry and discussing ways of cooperation.

This year's exhibition will present several digital tools to help partners and participants use the main exhibition features as well as help Malaysian exporters reach target markets around the world, he mentioned.

The organization of MIHAS this year comes as a continuation of the Malaysian government's plan to develop the halal industry, he said, expecting that the industry will contribute to the national economy with exports amounting to 56 billion Malaysian ringgit (USD 13 billion) by 2025.

MIHAS will be organized this year from September 7-10, as it is a vital regional event organized annually by MATRADE of the Ministry of International Trade and Industry.