'Halal Expo 2008' to focus on developing standards and modernising the Middle East 'Halal' sector

The growing demand by global 'Halal' consumers, currently at 1.8 billion, has continuously fuelled the global market to generate as much as $2.1 trillion annually, according to recent studies. The event, which is slated to run from November 24 - 26, 2008 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Dubai, is co-organized by Al Kaaz International Malaysia, and is expected to witness a 100% growth compared to its previous edition.

With aims to further strengthen the presence of 'Halal' products within the catering, hospitality, food and beverage, health and pharmaceuticals industries, the organiser has expanded the event's venue to a total of 1,500 sq. m. in order to accommodate the 7,000 to 8,000 visitors who are expected to attend. Following the confirmation of 20 global companies from eight countries, the organiser has also revealed that it is expecting to welcome more than 80 international exhibitors, which will signify a 30% increase in exhibitor participation compared to the previous event.

"Given the outstanding business potential and other benefits of 'Halal' products, the aim of 'Halal Expo 2008' is to foster trade and facilitate convenient access to genuine 'Halal' goods, making it within reach of customers," said Raees Ahmed, Director, Orange Fairs & Events.

"In addition to providing a comprehensive platform where 'Halal' companies can showcase their products to the global market, we are also focused on bringing forward the newest technologies that will revolutionise the global 'Halal' market. The concentration of 'Halal' trade lies within the Middle East region, and we have recognised the opportunity in mounting the second edition of the event in Dubai, as it serves as an economic gateway to the rest of the region."

Dubai is expected to play an important role in the 'Halal' industry, due to several plans by leading locally based 'Halal' companies to develop a credible and professional certification body within the emirate to monitor and uphold high quality standards according to global industry requirements. The six UAE-based companies who are participating at the event have already expressed their support for the initiative, which will be further discussed during the 'Halal Forum', a round-table dialogue among leading industry players, which will be held on the second day of the event. In addition, the expo will also feature interactive seminars, which have been designed to attract buyers and representatives from the food service, hospitality, retail, logistics, import/export and packaging industries.

Delegations from Australia, Argentina, Brazil, Brunei, Bosnia, Canada, China, Egypt, France, India, Indonesia, Iran, Jordan, Netherlands, Pakistan, The Philippines, Turkey, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, KSA, UK and the UAE are expected to attend the event. Representatives from government bodies including several regional and international Halal Certification Authorities, Chambers of Commerce, and the International Halal Associations, have also confirmed their presence.

"We believe that significant upgrades to current industry standards and practices are necessary to address the growing demands of the rapidly growing market. 'Halal Expo 2008' aims to provide a platform for organisations to meet, debate, discuss and explore standards, regulations and options into modernising this industry, which is growing at an equally fast rate as any other progressive verticals. There is huge potential for the UAE 'Halal' industry to produce and distribute high quality, regulation certified products throughout the region and the second edition of 'Halal Expo 2008' is set to further bolster this outstanding business opportunity for all the participants," concluded Ahmed.