MIFCO showcases fish products at Bangkok halal trade fair

The Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO) took part in the Grand Halal Bangkok 2026 exhibition this week, promoting Maldivian fish products to Thai and international buyers.

The event ran from July 15 to 17 at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC). MIFCO joined with support from the Embassy of Maldives in Thailand, according to the company and PSM News.

MIFCO is a state-owned company that produces, processes, and markets fish and fishery products. It became a fully state-owned enterprise in December 2023.

Grand Halal Bangkok is organized by Worldex G.E.C Co., Ltd and the Central Islamic Council of Thailand. It is one of Thailand's main halal trade exhibitions. Organizers said this year's edition expected more than 600 exhibitors from over 25 countries. PSM News reported the event was expected to draw between 12,000 and 15,000 visitors from more than 70 countries. A separate exhibitor fact sheet gave a lower estimate of around 10,000 visitors and 250 exhibitors. MBR could not independently confirm final attendance figures.

Thailand is the Maldives' largest export market for fish products. Most current exports to Thailand are raw or frozen tuna, according to PSM News. MIFCO said it used the exhibition to promote its processed, value-added products to Thai buyers instead.

MIFCO described its participation as an opportunity to explore new trade ties and highlight its sustainable fishing practices. In a Facebook post, the company said the event "opened up new opportunities" for exploring new trade horizons and strengthening international partnerships. These are MIFCO's own characterizations of the event's outcome and have not been independently verified.

PSM News reported that the government's broader aim is to expand existing markets and open new ones for Maldivian fisheries products. The report did not name a specific official or ministry statement to support this framing.

MIFCO's participation comes as Maldives seeks to diversify its fish exports beyond raw tuna. Government trade data shows Thailand bought a majority of Maldives' fish export value in recent years, though the value fell sharply between 2023 and 2024.