Malaysian firms secure RM420m sales in Paris food trade show

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian food exporters have generated RM420.35 million in sales at the Salon International de l'Alimentation Paris 2026 — the world's largest biennial international food industry trade show.

The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) said 43 Malaysian companies participated in the event, which was held from Oct 17 to 21 at Paris Nord Villepinte in France.

The Malaysian exhibitors came 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)," Matrade said.

It added that 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 and food ingredient solutions.

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

Matrade deputy chief executive officer (Export Acceleration) S. Jai Shankar said the Malaysian companies 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."

Matrade said Malaysia's internationally recognised halal certification framework, administered by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia, had 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.

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 to expand.