KUALA LUMPUR (Feb 14): The organiser of the 18th Malaysian International Food & Beverage Trade Fair (MIFB), Sphere Exhibits Malaysia Sdn Bhd, is projecting about US$400 million (RM1.78 billion) or 20% increase in trade value at its upcoming leading Malaysian and premium food and beverage (F&B) trade fair.
To be held at the Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) from Aug 9 to 11, the trade fair is said to be the longest-running F&B industry event featuring new and exciting insights into the F&B industry.
The targeted trade value is achievable, driven by the line-up of business matching programmes and bigger trade flow, said Sphere Exhibits managing director Elaine Chia, adding the team is more ambitious and have created a platform that is far more exciting in MIFB 2017.
"We are anticipating over 20,000 trade visitors with 10,000 to 20,000 product showcases from 550 exhibitors from more than 40 countries.
"With more exporters this time, it is possible for the 20% growth in trade value compared to last year, which only managed to generate an estimated trade value of US$360 million," she said during the MIFB media launch and business networking lunch today.
To date, there are about 300 international booths and around 100 local booths registered, and Sphere Exhibits is aiming for a 50:50 mix of local and international delegates representing various segments of the F&B, foodtech and seafood and fishery sectors.
This year's MIFB will focus on the importance of healthy and natural products, with features on ready-to-eat packages, with healthy and organic ingredients as well as halal ones.