F&B Industry Evolution at MIFB 2024 Conference

The Malaysian International Food & Beverage Trade Fair (MIFB) 2024 is gearing up to launch its inaugural Strategic Conference, scheduled for July 17-19 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC). This comprehensive three-day event aims to tackle pressing issues within the food and beverage sector, focusing on urban farming innovations, sustainable practices that go beyond mere greenwashing, and transformative changes within the F&B supply chain. As the industry grapples with evolving consumer demands and environmental challenges, the MIFB conference seeks to provide a vital platform for meaningful discourse among industry experts, aimed at future-proofing Malaysia’s F&B landscape.

The conference will delve into three critical areas essential for the growth and sustainability of the F&B industry: economic development, mobility, and blue and green infrastructure. These themes are particularly pertinent in the context of Malaysia’s rapid urbanisation and the increasing necessity for sustainable practices in food production and distribution. Keynote speakers, such as Faisal Mansor, Country Director (Malaysia) of ProVeg International, will present insights on market trends, emphasising the rising demand for sustainable and ethical protein alternatives. Mansor highlights the potential for restaurants and catering services to attract a broader customer base by diversifying their plant-based options, effectively marrying culinary innovation with environmental responsibility.

John Vincent Gastanes, Co-Founder and CEO of Farm Konekt, will introduce a groundbreaking platform aimed at reshaping the F&B supply chain by facilitating direct connections between farmers and markets. This innovative model seeks to enhance operational efficiency while reducing waste, an important consideration as the world confronts food security issues exacerbated by climate change. Furthermore, Chua Zhu Lian, Group Managing Director of Vision Group, will discuss how F&B businesses can leverage capital markets for growth, offering strategies for attracting investment and navigating IPO potential. This insight is particularly valuable as many entrepreneurs struggle with scaling their ventures amid financial barriers.