“Sold out every day” – Crowds in Japan are Lining Up for Hours Just to Try Out Roti Canai for RM50/Piece

What may be common to us can be a rare gem to others. While we pay less than RM2 for a piece of Roti Canai, visitors in Japan are willing to pay a much higher price for a piece of the Malaysian flatbread.

At the Malaysian Pavilion in Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan, the locals paid a whopping RM50 for just one piece of Roti Canai.

Not only that, but they also patiently lined up for over two hours for one of the most iconic Malaysian dishes, which we can have at any time of the day.  The Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, recently had the luxury to give the food a try while experiencing and witnessing the local crowds who expressed interest in the food.

In his social media post, Tengku Zafrul also revealed a shocking number.

The Roti Canai vendor at the expo could have ALL flatbread SOLD OUT every day, which was equivalent to 1,500 pieces.

The MITI Minister saw this as a positive sign that Malaysian food is gaining international recognition, asserting,

“This is proof that Malaysian dishes are in high demand and have found a place in the hearts of the international community.”

“Congratulations to the Malaysia Pavilion culinary team for consistently showcasing the taste of Malaysia on the world stage. Your efforts are truly appreciated!”

With that amount of Roti Canai sold, and if you do the simple math, the Roti Canai vendor made RM75,000 in JUST a day!

The event, also known as the 2025 Japan International Exposition, is being held until October 13, 2025, and will feature various pavilions, including those from participating countries, private sector companies, and signature pavilions designed by renowned architects, as per the official website of the Malaysia Pavilion.

Of course, it’s not just about Roti Canai alone. Tengku Zafrul also said the expo delivers Malaysian cultures, architecture, and other elements about our country.

Are you willing to pay RM50 for a piece of Roti Canai somewhere else?

Also read: “We didn’t make a lot in KL” – M’sians Sell RM16 Roti Canai in China & Talks to Customers in Mandarin