UAE: Global Halal food market valued at $2.77tr

BY NUSRAT KHALIL JAMALI – Gulf Today

DUBAI: Global Halal food market is valued at $2.77 trillion annually and it is expected to increase remarkably in years to come. This increase is the result of a fact that people around the world, Muslims and non-Muslims, prefer Halal food for various reasons.

In view of rapidly increasing demand of Halal food, the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), an arm of Malaysia’s Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI), has provided a strong platform to the world by organising Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) every year.

The upcoming event, scheduled to be held at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre from April 4 to 7, 2012, is believed to attract greater number of exhibitors and visitors as compared to previous editions, as the world economies have overcome the harsher impact of recession.

Said to be the world’s largest Halal trade fair, MIHAS 2012 will showcase Halal products including beverages, food, herbal, body care items, pharmaceuticals, toiletries, cosmetics, packaging, banking and insurance etc.

At a press event, held at a local hotel on Wednesday, Ahmed Fadil Shamsuddin, Consul General of Malaysia, delivered his opening speech and highlighted the importance of the upcoming show. He said the number of exhibitors and visitors is expected to rise, as countries which had not participated in the previous show for some reasons, have also confirmed their participation in MIHAS 2012.

He said, MIHAS is designed not only to bring together the world’s largest display of Halal goods, products and services under on roof, it is also aimed at showcasing the strength and potential of global networking amongst businesses. The show provides an opportunity to expand business by exploring new business markets in the world.

Mohammed Aminuddinuddin Sham Tajudin, Director Processed Food, Biotech and Halal Trade & Services Promotion Divisiion, Malaysia, gave a presentation on upcoming event and also informed the achievements of MIHAS during previous editions.

Speaking on the occasion and responding to the media queries, Mohammed Shukri Abdullah, Chief Executive Officer of the show, said, “Malaysia enjoys a mentionable share in the global Halal food market.”

To a question: “Non-Muslim countries are also participating in the show, how the Halal condition is applicable on them?” he said, it is mendatory for participating countries and companies get Halal Certification from Malaysia, which means products meet the required standards for Halal goods.”

Answering another question about non-food items like perfumes and soaps which contain substances that Muslims don’t use, he said, it is ensured that such products should be made using Halal substances.”

Mazian Harun, Deputy Trade Commissioner and Vice Consul (Trade) and Suwardy Abd Shukor, Assistant Manager, Halal Produccts, Biotech, herbs & MIHAS Trade & Services Promotion Division were also present at the media briefing.