The most comprehensive Middle East event to focus on the increasingly global Halal industry, Halal World Expo, will be launched in Abu Dhabi later this year by leading event organisers IIR Middle East.
With the global Halal food market now worth an estimated US$2.1 trillion a year based on estimates by the Malaysian Government , Halal World Expo, taking place from 9-11th December, is aiming to bring global industry giants together in the first comprehensive exhibition in the region that covers all sectors and focus areas of the Halal market.
Analysts predict that vast growth potential can be achieved for regional producers and distributors by increased networking with contemporaries on an international level and so catering to a growing demand for Halal products worldwide. Halal World Expo will present the international platform within which this may be achieved by providing exhibitors with the opportunity to meet industry peers and authorities, network and create further business opportunities.
It is often taken for granted that processed food and products available in supermarkets of an Islamic country like the UAE are fully Halal compliant unless stated as being for ‘non muslim’ consumption or use. While there are currently systems in place to protect the consumer in the UAE, the fast growth pattern that is currently being experienced in the Halal consumer market means there is a growing demand for a globalised standard across all Halal products.
This standard will provide consumers with peace of mind when making buying decisions which are directly related to their lifestyle and beliefs. Some countries have already formed regulatory bodies to services there market like Malaysia and Brunei, who verify products that are Halal compliant. Halal World Expo will provide a platform for organisations to meet; debate and discuss standards, regulations and explore options into globalising this industry which is fast growing momentum.
As the Middle East positions itself as one of the premier users of quality Halal products with its dense concentration of Muslim consumers, there is huge potential for the Halal industry to produce and distribute high quality, regulation certified Halal products throughout the region.
Halal World Expo will provide the gateway into this relatively untapped market and will work in conjunction with international and regional authorities, to hold discussion seminars focusing on the important issues of regulations and standardisation at event.
The exhibition will also be looking at Halal lifestyle products including Islamic fashion, cosmetics and other health care products, as there has been a growing demand in the UAE towards products that are Halal compliant. The exhibition will also focus on Islamic Finance, which is currently worth between US$200 and $500 billion annually and a consistently growing interest for financial market across the world.
Christine Weaver, Exhibition Director of Halal World Expo said: “By focusing on globalising quality Middle East Halal products we will offer both regional and international exhibitors a gateway to penetrate the Middle East and international markets. This direct route provides a cost-effective platform for exhibitors to market their products and services to an ever increasing demand in a world-wide industry.”
Originating from the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Halal World Expo will be the most comprehensive event dedicated to the Halal marketplace. The exhibition will take place from the 9th-11th of December 2007 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.