UAE: The Global Halal Food Market Grows Steadily

According to a report, the global Halal food market has grown strongly over the past decade, estimated to be worth US$667 billion, accounting for nearly 20% of the global food industry.

As for the cause, the annual growth rate of Halal food consumption is about 16%. The report, the 'Global Halal Industry Overview' by Edbiz Consulting and the Nasdaq OMX Global Index, was released in advance at the 2017 Dubai Gulfood Manufacturing show.

The Gulfood Manufacturing show, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from October 31 to November 2, will provide an excellent opportunity for hundreds of local, regional and international exhibitors across the food industry supply chain. A total of 144 Halal exhibitors will showcase their latest products and solutions in the ingredients sector.

The report by Edbiz Consulting and the Nasdaq OMX Global Index shows that the UAE has set the global benchmark for Halal certification, and the Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA) has implemented legislation on Halal product certification and control in recent years.

Trixie LohMirmand, Senior Vice President of Exhibitions and Events Management at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), said: 'In recent years, the global Halal industry has achieved remarkable growth, and the UAE, as a leader in the industry, has also taken the lead in setting the highest standards. Influential manufacturers and experts in the Halal food supply chain now increasingly see the benefits of participating in our show, the largest exhibition for ingredients, processing, packaging and logistics in the Middle East. This platform will undoubtedly help the Emirates achieve its goal of becoming the capital of the Islamic economy, because its Halal product trade promotes the development of the Islamic economy.'

One unique Halal-certified product on display comes from Egyptian exhibitor Kamena, who will showcase its seasoning blends—which can be used to season fries, salads, popcorn and more flavors, including Mexican cheese, paprika, red lemon, kebab and jalapeno.

Samy Anton, Regional Sales Manager of Kamena Products, said: 'We consider this show one of the most important shows in the Middle East food industry, which will help our company achieve its expansion strategy and increase its international customer base in the Middle East. We have strong development capabilities to develop seasonings suited to Middle Eastern tastes and preferences, and we hope to connect with our markets of interest, such as Syria, Jordan, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Kuwait, as well as some African countries such as Sudan, Ethiopia, Libya, Algeria, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda and Uganda.'