Malaysia Weighs Merger of Key Halal and Trade Agencies

Malaysia Reviews Merger of Halal and Trade Agencies Kuala Lumpur, May 28, 2025 – Malaysia's Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) is currently reviewing a proposal to merge the Halal Development Corporation (HDC) and the Malaysian External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE). This decision comes as MITI weighs various options to boost the nation's halal industry. Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz stated, "We are still studying this because there are other proposals. One example is strengthening the national halal industry and focusing on halal development." He made the announcement following the ASEAN-GCC Economic Forum 2025. The proposed merger aims to strengthen MATRADE's export capabilities by leveraging HDC's expertise in the halal sector. This integration is expected to expand market access for Malaysian halal products globally through strategic initiatives involving MATRADE's 49 trade offices worldwide. The final decision will be presented to the Cabinet soon. MITI's statement emphasizes the potential for enhanced export capabilities and broader market reach for Malaysian halal products through this consolidation. The ongoing review reflects a careful consideration of various options to optimize the growth and development of the halal industry in Malaysia.