FOODEX JAPAN 2016 formed a solid business platform for exhibitors and trade visitors especially in the Asian region to seek new business opportunities in the F&B industry and created high potential for the export market. It held its 41st edition on 8-11 March 2016 at Makuhari Messe, Tokyo, Japan.

Opening ceremony of FOODEX JAPAN 2016

The event was organised by Japan Management Association, Japan Hotel Association, Japan Ryokan & Hotel Association, Japan Restaurant Association, Japan Tourism Facilities Association and was supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Japan Tourism Agency, Chiba Prefecture, Chiba City, and Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO).

The event received an increased in number of overseas visitors. The 2016 event received 9,365 overseas visitors while in 2015 the number of overseas visitors was 8,356. South Korea contributed the largest number of visitors, followed by China and Japan.

FOODEX JAPAN 2016 drew crowds of buyers

Among the highlights of the event were International Tea & Coffee Show, Organic & Wellness Zone, Trend Stage, and Halal Supermarket. There were also an exhibitor seminars for participating countries to highlight and promote their products.

In collaboration with Japan Management Association (JMA), DagangHalal (DH) hosted FOODEX Japan Halal Supermarket. The supermarket was a hit, especially among trade visitors from Japan mainly due to the upcoming Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Ever since Japan was appointed to host this prestigious event, they have been preparing themselves to accommodate tourists from around the world. This includes making Japan more Muslim friendly.

The Halal Supermarket one-stop platform showcased international Halal brands. The massive physical display and strategic location drew large crowds of global traders interested in Halal products. Potential buyers were able to see and touch the actual products which made it easier for them to make spot-on decisions. This was evident as serious buyers quickly identified the products they were interested in and made specific enquiries.

DH Business Matching Activities:
- Merchant Physical Products Showcase
- HMag Merchants Introduction
- HMag Distribution - 1000 copies to traders

There were many enquiries and sign-ups from participants at the event. After verifying requests, business match-reports were sent to DH merchants for them to interact directly with their potential buyers after the trade fair. All buying requests were also channeled to the respective merchants through the Halal Trade Manager system.

The Halal Supermarket gained positive response throughout the event. It was successful at creating Halal presence and awareness at the trade fair. There were many enquiries and sign-ups from participants at the event. Organising more Halal Supermarket concepts should at international trade shows will definitely benefit Halal industries.