First 99 Speedmart Outside Malaysia Opens in Fuzhou – Here’s What’s Inside

Malaysians love their 99 Speedmart runs – whether it’s grabbing a cold drink after prayers at the mosque, stocking up on snacks for a road trip, or picking up essentials late at night. Now, this beloved homegrown brand has officially gone international! On 31 Aug 2025, 99 Speedmart opened its very first overseas store in Fuzhou, the capital of Fujian province, China.

For many Malaysians who’ve long relied on the convenience store chain’s familiar green-and-orange storefront, this is a proud moment. It’s not just about business expansion – it’s about sharing a slice of Malaysian culture with the world.

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A Milestone for Malaysia’s Mini Mart Giant

The announcement came via a filing with Bursa Malaysia on 2 Sep, confirming that the Fuzhou outlet is just the beginning. The company plans to introduce prototype outlets in the city before progressively expanding its presence in the region. For now, the impact on 99 Speedmart’s overall earnings or assets is expected to be minimal for the 2025 financial year, but this step signals a bold new chapter for the brand.

Interestingly, the expansion news followed local Chinese media reports, which revealed that the new operations in Fujian would be fully owned by 99 Speedmart – a sign of confidence in their international ambitions.

Why Fuzhou? A gateway for Muslim travellers

Fuzhou, while not as internationally famous as Beijing or Shanghai, is a bustling city with a rich cultural heritage and growing tourism appeal. For Muslim travellers, this development is exciting. While halal-certified products in China can sometimes be tricky to source, having a Malaysian mini-mart brand like 99 Speed Mart in town could mean easier access to trusted snacks and familiar brands – perfect for those looking for a taste of home while exploring.

For Malaysians travelling to Fuzhou, imagine popping into a familiar 99 Speedmart to grab your favourite Milo, Maggi, or sambal-flavoured chips after a day of sightseeing. It’s a small comfort that bridges cultures.

Halal-friendly finds at 99 Speedmart

One of the best parts about 99 Speedmart is its wide range of halal-certified products. For Muslim travellers, this means peace of mind while snacking or stocking up on essentials abroad. Here’s what you’ll often find:

• Instant Noodles & Ready-to-Eat Meals: From Maggi Kari to Ayam Brand tuna and sardines, perfect for a quick, halal-friendly meal in your hotel room.

• Malaysian Snacks & Goodies: Think Mamee Monster, Muruku, and kacang putih – familiar comfort food that’s halal-certified and travel-friendly.

• Beverages: Milo, Teh Tarik, Nescafé, soy milk, and even mineral water brands you trust, ideal for long sightseeing days.

• Grab-and-Go Breakfasts: Halal-certified bread, buns, kaya spreads, and peanut butter for travellers who like a quick bite.

• Dates & Nuts: A staple for Muslim travellers, especially if you’re keeping up with sunnah snacking or looking for healthy options on the go.

• Personal Care Products: Halal-friendly toiletries like toothpaste, soaps, and skincare from brands you already know and trust.

For Muslim travellers exploring a foreign country, having easy access to halal-certified products can feel like a lifeline. And now, with a 99 Speedmart in Fuzhou, this little piece of Malaysia makes travelling just a bit more convenient.

The brand’s Malaysian footprint

Back home, 99 Speedmart is a household name. With 2,894 outlets across Malaysia as of June 2025, the brand has become synonymous with affordable convenience and late-night grocery runs. It even plays a quiet but important role in local communities, with stores often located near suraus or in neighbourhoods where Muslim travellers and families can quickly stock up on essentials.

Its expansion to China is another step in showcasing Malaysia’s retail expertise on the global stage – similar to how we celebrate Malaysian brands like Secret Recipe, OldTown White Coffee, or Marrybrown making waves abroad.

Also read: 10 Popular Halal Restaurants in Shenzhen, China for Muslim Travellers

A symbol of Malaysian pride

99 Speedmart may not have revealed how much they invested in this China venture, but their bold move to enter one of the world’s most competitive retail markets speaks volumes. Shares in the company closed at RM2.50 on Tuesday, valuing the group at RM21.17 billion – proof that this isn’t just a convenience store chain; it’s a Malaysian retail powerhouse.

For Muslim travellers, this is more than just retail news. It’s a reminder that Malaysia’s halal-friendly culture, products, and hospitality are making their way into global markets, making travel more comfortable and inclusive. Who knows? In a few years, you might be stocking up at a 99 Speedmart in other parts of China – or even Europe or the Middle East.