It’s nine a clock in the morning and many exhibitors, organizers and volunteers are in the running to put everything in place before the Halal Expo officially starts at the ‘Beursgebouw’ in Eindhoven. Nutrition, cosmetics, fashion, tourism, pharmacy and financial organisations from different corners of the world are present at Halal Expo Europe, an event that is organised for the second time by Hogiaf and NBI International. This year, the number of exhibitors has strongly increased. The number of exhibitors almost doubled in comparison with the first time the event was held. This big growth means that the Expo is now the biggest Expo concerning Halal-business in Europe and even the world! Reason enough for the visitors to have a look in the world of halal products and services.

At ten a clock the first visitors make their way in, looking for interesting products and new ‘business’ contacts. Some might even look for possibilities to go abroad with their enterprises or to expand their business. A moment later the opening of the fair held place at the central matching area. A warm welcome was spoken out, by Naomi Verstraeten, to the exhibitors and visitors of the Halal Expo. A short intro was given on the city of Eindhoven and the importance of business for the region. Eindhoven is one of the brain spots in the Netherlands, with an University that is known for its knowledge on technology and the multinational Philips who has its roots here. Therefore, Eindhoven is an interesting meeting place for international business. With the gates open for business, the Halal Expo has chosen this city for her event.

After the introduction of Naomi, the microphone came in the hands of state minister Dato’ Haji Abdul Malik Kassim of Malaysia. He pointed at the importance of halal-business for Muslims in this region, but also elsewhere in the world. Another point was that also non-Muslims should have a look in the halal-business to see what the opportunities are for their enterprises.

Then the talking spot was taken by the chairman of Hogiaf, Sukru Masmas, sharing with us the fact that the Halal Expo is the biggest halal-business event in the world and he hopes that the growth will continue. Finally the opening-talk ended with the best wishes of the chairmen and some pictures of the members from the organization.

A day full of matchmaking between entrepreneurs has started. Besides the matchmaking, there is the opportunity to follow seminars on halal-related topics that are given by professionals whom are active in the halal-sector. You can also have a quick bite from one of the food stands or some advice on how to get the correct certificates for business abroad. When you feel the urgency to sit down for a minute, you can sit down on one of the seats at the central matching area and enjoy some traditional Moroccan food with a cold drink.

The end of day 1. It was a joyful, fertile and productive day. We are looking forward to tomorrow, day 2 of Halal Expo Europe 2016, when the most innovative product or service will be announced as well as the most beautiful stand on the Expo. We hope to see you there then!

« ‹ 1 van 2 › »