Malaysian food exporters secure RM420.35mil in sales at SIAL Paris 2026

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian food exporters generated RM420.35 million in total sales at SIAL Paris 2026, reflecting growing demand among European buyers for the country's food products and manufacturing capabilities.

The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) said a total of 43 Malaysian companies, comprising small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and established exporters, participated under the Malaysia Pavilion.

Held from October 17 to 21 at Paris Nord Villepinte, France, the event brought together exhibitors from eight states, with Selangor contributing the largest contingent of 23 companies.

"This was followed by Johor (five), Kuala Lumpur (four), Kedah (three), Perak (three), Sarawak (three), Penang (one) and Terengganu (one)," it said.

Matrade said the results reflected growing interest among European importers, distributors, retailers and food service operators in Malaysian suppliers, particularly those offering private-label products, original equipment manufacturing (OEM) and food ingredient solutions.

It noted that the products showcased at the Malaysia Pavilion included processed foods, convenient meal solutions, beverages, snacks and plant-based innovations.

Matrade deputy chief executive officer (Export Acceleration) S. Jai Shankar said Malaysian SMEs had demonstrated their readiness to compete not only as consumer brands but also as reliable partners in Europe's food supply chain.

"European buyers are looking for suppliers who can guarantee consistent quality, traceability and reliable capacity, and our companies demonstrated that they can meet these expectations.

"Matrade's priority now is to help them convert these leads into long-term supply contracts," he said.

Matrade said Malaysia's internationally recognised halal certification framework, administered by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim), further strengthened confidence in the integrity and traceability of Malaysian food products.

It added that demand trends in France, particularly for authentic Asian flavours, ready-to-eat and ready-to-heat meals, plant-based alternatives and diverse culinary ingredients, presented opportunities for Malaysian manufacturers.

The growth in Malaysia's processed food exports to France in 2025 also provided a foundation for local exporters to deepen relationships with French importers and distributors.

As one of the European Union's largest consumer markets, France offers established retail networks, food service channels and distribution infrastructure that could serve as a gateway for Malaysian companies seeking to expand into other EU member states.

Malaysia and the EU are currently negotiating the Malaysia-EU Free Trade Agreement, with Matrade continuing to keep exporters informed of developments as the negotiations progress.