More than 20 companies from Malaysia are participating in ‘Halal Expo 2008’, the definitive event for the Halal industry in the region, which is slated to run from November 24 till 26, in Dubai.

The country is eyeing the $5.52 billion UAE food services market by highlighting their top-quality Halal food products to local quick service restaurants.

Malaysia aims to fully capitalise on the $500 billion global Halal market by boosting its Halal exports to the region, which they are aiming to grow by more than 20 per cent this year from $71 million in 2007.

As one of the leading economies in the region, the UAE plays an important role in Malaysia’s aims to establish a significant presence in the global market, on account of its massive food imports, 80 per cent of which are under the Halal category.

In 2007, the UAE had purchased nearly eight per cent of the world’s lamb and beef imports, and 15.4 per cent of global poultry imports.

Aiming to leverage the soaring demand, the companies that comprise the Malaysian delegation will showcase various Halal foodstuffs at the ‘Halal Expo 2008’, including sauces, health food supplements, vegetable oil, snacks, dairy products, chocolates, coffee and tea, ready-to-eat frozen foods, cocoa, confectionery items, biscuits, health food and fruit juices.

“We have recognised the significance of ‘Halal Expo 2008’ as an ideal platform to exhibit some of our most innovative and top quality food products, especially our Halal-based health food items, which are gaining widespread popularity amidst the current trend for health and fitness products,' said Mohamed Shaiful, CEO, Noble Maxim Sdn Bhd, Malaysia.

Malaysian participants at the expo will be showcasing their Malaysian Halal Standards (MS1500:2004) certified processes, which meet the requirements of international health and safety standards such as CODEX and HACCP and the global Muslim community.

“The event will also provide significant data for their market research initiatives, which can lead to the birth of more potential businesses,” concluded Nafees Ahmed, project manager, Orange Fairs & Events.

At present, 20 global companies from eight countries have already confirmed their participation at the expo, the organiser is expecting more than 80 international exhibitors.-TradeArabia News Service