Abu Dhabi is building a solid platform to create globalised standards in the Halal industry.

Middle East countries, especially members of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC), have higher incomes and consequently higher per capita rates of consumption. In addition, the region must import 80% of its food requirements. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are seen as the most important import markets in the region. Currently Brazil is the largest exporter to the two countries followed by the EU and the US. Saudi Arabian companies involved in the Halal industry include Al-Radwa Farms, Al- Watania, Supreme Foods, Nash Meat and Sunbullah. UAE companies involved in the Halal industry include Al-Islami Foods, Al-Babeer, Al-Areesh, Arctic Gold, Royal Meat and Emirates Meat.Turkey is a growing Halal market and as a potential supplier of Halal products, particularly to EU counties with large Muslim populations such France and Germany. Egypt was recently seen as the most important market for Halal food in North Africa. However, it has been noted that the “complex regulatory system” in Egypt has led a number of potential suppliers to serve the market through investment rather than exports.

HALAL MALAYSIA & SOUTH EAST ASIA

Malaysia andSouth East Asia houses almost a 1 billion Muslims. Malaysia is considered to be an established and successful leader in the halal market among the Muslim countries. It aspires to be an international hub for halal, but is currently working to become a regional halal food production and distribution hub under the third Industrial Master Plan (2006-2010).