An exhibition which will focus on developing standards and modernising the Middle East ‘halal’ sector will be held in Dubai in November.

Halal Expo 2008, a definitive event for the ‘halal’ sector is being organised by Orange Fairs & Events from November 24 - 26, 2008 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Dubai.

The growing demand by global ‘halal’ consumers, currently at 1.8 billion, has continuously fuelled the market to generate as much as $2.1 trillion annually, according to recent studies.

The event is co-organised by Al Kaaz International Malaysia, and is expected to witness a 100 per cent growth compared to its previous edition, said a statement.

With aims to further strengthen the presence of ‘halal’ products within the catering, hospitality, food and beverage, health and pharmaceuticals industries, the organiser has expanded the exhibition space to a total of 1,500 sq m in order to accommodate the 7,000 to 8,000 visitors who are expected to attend.

Following the confirmation of 20 global companies from eight countries, the organiser has also revealed that it is expecting to welcome more than 80 international exhibitors, which will signify a 30 per cent increase in exhibitor participation compared to the previous event.

“Given the outstanding business potential and other benefits of ‘halal’ products, the aim of Halal Expo 2008 is to foster trade and facilitate convenient access to genuine ‘halal’ goods, making it within reach of customers,” said Raees Ahmed, director, Orange Fairs & Events.

Delegations from Australia, Argentina, Brazil, Brunei, Bosnia, Canada, China, Egypt, France, India, Indonesia, Iran, Jordan, Netherlands, Pakistan, The Philippines, Turkey, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, UK and the UAE are expected to attend the event. – TradeArabia News Service