“Halaal-friendly travel and hospitality are set to become a major component of the global Halaal industry,” says John Thomson, managing director of Exhibition Management Services, organisers of AB7. “Almost one quarter of the world’s population is Muslim, and the annual Halaal food industry is worth $640-billion; that offers entrepreneurs countless opportunities for innovative Halaal products and services to the world’s Muslims.”

Organised by the South African National Halaal Authority, the programme includes local and international speakers. Topics under discussion will include Consumer Protection, Regulating Halaal, Animal Welfare, and Halaal Tourism.

“One of the conference speakers is Fazal Bahardeen, founder and CEO of Crescent Rating, the world’s first travel portal dedicated to Halaal conscious travellers,” continues Thomson. “His company rates travel and tourism services around the world for their Halaal friendliness. He estimates that Muslim travellers have an annual market potential of up to $100-billion.”

Muslim travellers can be divided into three categories, according to Bahardeen. “Thirty percent are those who absolutely want Halaal-friendly facilities on their travels; 50% who will use Halaal-friendly facilities if available, or any facilities if not; and finally, 20% not looking for Halaal friendly facilities. Under these assumptions, 80% of Muslims aspire to Halaal friendly travel - $80-billion worth of potential.”

Professor Sira Abdu Rahman, president of the Commonwealth Veterinary Association, will address conference delegates on Islam and animal welfare. Rahman has published over 100 scientific papers and a book on parasitology. He is a member of the World Global Halaal Forum and International Halaal Standards.

“Professor Abdu Rahman is actively engaged in promoting animal welfare in Islamic countries,” says John Thomson. “He is particularly concerned about issues of cruelty to animals prior to slaughter, and the long transport distances in the Middle East.”

Halaal World is an ever growing component show of Africa’s Big Seven (AB7) Food & Beverage trade exhibition. It is dedicated to showcasing global trade opportunities in the Halaal food and beverage market. Halaal World features canned products, beverages, agricultural products, dairy products, confectionery, grocery products, meat products, herbs and spices, frozen and organic food products, fresh and dried fruit and vegetables

The International Halaal Conference will take place during Africa’s Big Seven on 16 July at Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, Gauteng.