KL trade fair showcases evolution of trends in F&B sector
FROM the hiss of espresso machines to the clink of wine glasses, the three-day Malaysian International Food & Beverage Trade Fair (MIFB) got off to a vibrant start at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
Held from July 30 to Aug 1, the event drew a crowd of over 11,500 attendees including regional buyers, entrepreneurs, trade professionals, and media.
Launched by Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Chan Foong Hin, the event returned under the theme 'Future-Ready F&B: Serving the Evolution of Trends,' cementing its place as a platform for innovation and growth in Malaysia's food and beverage sector.
With more than 450 companies from over 40 countries showcasing their wares and solutions, this year's edition focused on technology, sustainability and scalability – three pillars that the organisers said were essential to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving consumer market.
Chan said this year's theme captured the industry's transformation through its adaptation to consumer preferences, embrace of digitalisation, and sustainable innovation.
He said events like MIFB were essential in shaping Malaysia's global F&B leadership by fostering innovation, elevating sustainability and enabling regional partnerships.
A major highlight this year was the inaugural Malaysia Cafe Expo (MCE), a new feature celebrating the rise of cafe culture, from specialty coffee to artisanal food and service design.
Organised in partnership with the Malaysia Specialty Coffee Association (MSCA), the expo hosted the Malaysia National Coffee Championship (MNCC) semi-finals, where Malaysia's top baristas vied for a shot at international glory.
'Our collaboration with MIFB through MNCC and MCE reflects the rise of Malaysia's specialty coffee scene, and provides a launchpad for local talent to reach global stages,' said MSCA president and Coffex Coffee chief executive officer Kelvin Ngow.
Constellar group chief executive officer Chua Wee Phong said businesses must retool for transparency, traceability and tech adoption in today's fast-changing market.
'MIFB is a platform that helps them do just that,' said Chua.
The Wine, Spirits & Beer Showcase, in partnership with Crafted, presented curated tastings and masterclasses that blended indulgence with education on craft production and market trends.
At the Knowledge Hub, experts and industry players tackled topics such as artificial intelligence in food production, and sustainable packaging.
MIFB also featured live culinary demonstrations by some of Malaysia's most celebrated chefs.
Showcasing talent from top institutions and hotels, these chefs brought international flair and technical mastery to the event.
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