UK: Understanding details key to grasping opportunities of increasing Halal market

Awareness of specific details and growing market opportunities for halal meat were the main areas of discussion at a meeting about the rapidly increasing sector. Jim Gerrard reports…

The speakers also discussed the market requirements and the increased supply of halal required for younger consumers and Muslim festivals.

Over 100 farmers attended the first meeting on Monday July 2nd at Welshpool Livestock Market. The two guest speakers were Awal Fuseini, AHDB halal sector manager, and Rizvan Khalid, of Euro Quality Lambs.

A series of presentations have been organised and run with the support of the Livestock Auctioneers Association (LAA).

John Brereton, LAA chairman and partner at St Asaph and Oswestry Livestock Markets, said: “While most sheep farmers will be very aware of the halal market opportunities and demand around Muslim festivals, it is detail that is all important.

“It is important to be aware of the specifics. Both speakers were able to provide very informative presentations not just on the market opportunity and requirements, but also the science and method of halal slaughter techniques.

“What came across clearly is that the Muslim market is increasingly important to the sheep trade in the UK.”

The next meeting is due to take place at Ruthin Livestock Market on Wednesday, July 11 at 6pm, which are free and anyone can attend.