GCC forecasted to consume $43.8bn worth of Halal food products in 2009

In line with its commitment towards boosting the regional Halal food trade, Orange Fairs & Events has announced the launch of 'Halal Expo 2009', the definitive event for 'Halal' industry in the region, which is now in its third year.

Endorsed by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the event, which is slated to run from November 10 - 12, 2009 at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai is set to host more than 200 brands from 34 countries and is expected to be 100 per cent bigger than its previous edition.

With almost all GCC countries relying on imported food products, a significant jump in Halal food imports to the region has been monitored over the years, which has eventually led to a unification of understanding and implementation of the Halal concept among all players involved in the trade.

As the market continues to record steady growth, 'Halal Expo 2009' seeks to provide an avenue wherein importers, exporters and consumers can converge and convene to develop ways to further grow the market while expanding their own networks across the global market. This year, the organiser has expanded the venue to 2,600 sq. metres in order to accommodate the 7,000 to 8,000 trade visitors who are expected to attend the event.

Raees Ahmed, Director, Orange Fairs & Events, said:

"Amidst this economic crisis, the region has experienced a growing demand for Halal and Shariah compliant products, which is being further driven by the growing cooperation among market players across the globe on a single quality standard for Halal products."

Ahmed added, "'Halal Expo 2009' aims to fuel the growth of this potential-laden sector, with a focus on encouraging the trade of high quality, regulation-compliant products. At present, we are expecting to welcome over 200 brands at the event, but we are geared-up to accommodate more companies who want to participate."

'Halal Expo 2009' primarily aims to provide a platform for global organisations to showcase their products and services, while giving them an opportunity to participate in high impact discussions on regulations and options into modernising this industry, which is growing at an equally fast rate as any other progressive verticals. Companies who have confirmed their presence at the event include those from Australia, Argentina, Brazil, Canada, China, Croatia, Egypt, France, Germany, Indonesia, Iran, Italy, Jordan, KSA, Kuwait, Netherlands, Pakistan, Poland, The Philippines, Turkey, Thailand, Tunisia, Malaysia, Singapore, Spain, UK, USA and the UAE. In addition, several regional and international Halal Certification Authorities, Chambers of Commerce, and International Halal Associations have also confirmed their presence at the event.

"The region is witnessing an important shift in the Halal business model, as it gears up for further sustainable growth by leveraging investment opportunities in agricultural projects via joint ventures and partnerships. Our support for this major development in the market is underlined by our consistent efforts to stage 'Halal Expo', which has, since its inception, served as an effective platform for companies to introduce their products to the market and for buyers to access the best Halal products available. We are confident of and looking forward to the success of the event this year," concluded Ahmed.