Libya’s Maiden MIHAS 2026 Participation To Boost Bilateral Trade With Malaysia
By Nur Athirah Mohd Shaharuddin
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 23 (Bernama) -- Libya’s maiden participation in the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) 2026 aims to boost bilateral trade between Libya and Malaysia, while deepening collaboration and facilitating smoother trade relations between the two countries.
Chairman of the General Authority for Exhibitions and Conferences – Libya, Essam Al-Aoul, said the participation also seeks to leverage Malaysia’s halal certification expertise, particularly that of the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM).
He said Libya also aims to bring the experience gained at MIHAS to the country and the wider African market, with Libya serving as a gateway to Africa.
Essam noted that Libya’s participation in MIHAS 2026 followed an evaluation of halal exhibitions worldwide, with the Malaysian showcase meeting its criteria in terms of credibility, reputation and other key considerations, making it a suitable platform for the country’s participation.
“Another thing also, this is a very good point for Libyan exhibitors and companies, as they carry quality products.
“This is a good opportunity for them to engage on the international stage with local (Malaysian) and international companies participating in MIHAS 2026, and to showcase the quality of Libyan products,” he told Bernama.
He said this during an interview with the Bernama Mobile Studio programme to discuss the topic of “Exhibiting at MIHAS 2026 and Global Halal Trade”.
He said Libya also hoped to ease business transactions and strengthen collaboration between the two countries, enabling businesses from both sides to operate more smoothly.
“Malaysian products are accessible in the Libyan market and enjoy a strong and good reputation. At the same time, Libyan products are very promising, and we see a future for them in neighbouring countries as well as on the international stage,” he said.
However, Essam said Libya needs to leverage Malaysia’s expertise as a leading player in the halal industry and bring the ecosystem to the country, which can help its exporters have their products recognised under the halal trademark in Malaysia.
He also highlighted that Libya’s Government of National Unity is currently looking to develop the halal ecosystem in Libya by assigning relevant institutions to review regulations and policies that could support its development and enable the country to leverage the experience of other countries.
Essam will be in Malaysia until this Friday and is looking forward to visiting government institutions to look into these matters.
MIHAS 2026 will be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Sept 25, 2026.
MIHAS 2026 is currently being held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) for four days from Sept 23, and was previously reported to be targeting more than RM5 billion in potential business, while expanding access for Malaysian halal products to international markets.
Organised by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) and coordinated by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), the event is also expected to attract more than 50,000 visitors from 45 countries.
-- BERNAMA