MIHAS 2005 To Position Malaysia As Halal Hub

While the term ‘Halal’ is widely known in a food context, the word is used less in an economic sense. And the Malaysian International Showcase (MIHAS) 2005 hopes to change that. MIHAS 2005 is rallying local and international entrepreneurs to explore the huge potential--an estimated US$2.1 trillion--that the global Halal market has to offer. It also wants to shed light on ‘permissible’ business principles, as well as facilitate the handling of Muslim clients with its Business Matching Program.

'In the face of a competitive free trade environment which dominates the world economy, it is crucial for global Halal industry players to ensure that Halal products and services find their own strengths and capitalise on their market niche,’ deputy international trade and industry minister, Ahmad Husni Hanadzlah told the New Straits Times.

The second-ever Halal exhibition and conference in Malaysia hopes to position the country as a successful Halal hub–a vision set forth by former prime minister, Dr Mahatir Mohamad. Datuk Ahmad Husni says that Malaysia still lacks raw materials. It needs to develop a global supply chain in order to take advantage of the worldwide Halal market. Malaysia’s yearly exports of Halal processed food currently stands at only US$1.57 billion.

Based on last year’s success, the exhibition and conference this year is expected to attract visitors from more than 35 countries. This year’s theme is "Repositioning the Global Halal Business". Five hundred participants have already booked booths. Some of the local exhibitors include Nutrifresh Food, Beverages Industries Sdn Bhd and Nestlé (M) Bhd. Prime minister Abdullah Badawi will launch the four-day exhibition.

28-31 July 2005

The 2nd Malaysia International Halal Showcase

Malaysia International Exhibition & Convention Centre

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

For more information:

www.MIHAS.com.my

info@MIHAS.com.my