Malaysia-US Trade Agreement: Food Sector Implications
Malaysia’s latest trade deal with the United States could have significant impacts for the food sector – but not so soon, and not all will benefit
Malaysia signed a new trade agreement with the United States at the recent ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, agreeing to reduce tariffs on 98.4% of US products in order to get a lower reciprocal tariff rate on products it exports to the US.
Indonesia commits to easier halal certification for food SMEs
Indonesia aims to simplify halal certification for food SMEs, boosting global competitiveness and ensuring inclusive access for small businesses
Since October 2024, Indonesia has enforced regulations mandating that all local and imported products being traded in the country which are not on a pre-approved Positive List must be halal-certified, including foods and beverages.
However, this has not yet been implemented for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) due to various complications. The anticipated date of enforcement will be in October 2026.
Gen Z & wellness in the digital age: How Mars Wrigley plans SEA growth
Gen Z’s focus on wellness and digital culture drives Mars Wrigley’s South East Asian strategy in snacking, oral care and mental wellbeing
Confectionery heavyweight Mars Wrigley is doubling down on Gen Z, a generation reshaping wellness through fun, indulgence, and digital connection.
Fashion Food’s healthy instant meals blend wellness and convenience
Fashion Food moves beyond snacks with healthy instant rice soups and noodles, tapping into booming convenience and wellness food trends
The Thai-based brand is best-known for its tomato chips, which gained newfound popularity Kpop girl group BLACKPINK’s Jisoo mentioned these in an Instagram post in 2023.
The company has been making snacks for several decades, but is now moving to align with consumer demands for convenient meal options that are also healthier.
Vietnam’s Vinh Hoan meets convenience and wellness needs with pangasius
Vinh Hoan is maximising pangasius fish commercial potential with a circular model supporting convenient nutrition and supplement innovation
Driven by global trends toward convenience and health, the firm has been expanding its ready-to-eat portfolio and wellness products through a circular economy model that maximises various parts of the pangasius fish.
Vinh Hoan is one of the world’s most well-recognised names in pangasius fish production, innovation and exports.
