Matrade eyes total sales of RM500 million

The Malaysia External Trade Development Corp (Matrade) is aiming for total sales of over RM500 million at this year's 10th Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS 2013). Its chief executive officer, Datuk Dr Wong Lai Sum, said this was despite the unfavourable global economy. "The sales figure was was the same as last year's. We expect 20,000 quality visitors," she said at the launch of the "World Halal Week, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 2013' here today. The three-day MIHAS 2013, themed 'A Decade of Excellence", will be held from Apr 3 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. Two other prominent halal international events World Halal Research Summit and the World Halal Forum -- will also be held during the Week. Matrade and Halal Industry Development Corp (HDC), together with the International Halal Integrity (IHI) Alliance, will organise the event. "The estimated market for halal products, which is said to be worth over US$2.3 trillion (RM7.2 trillion), is waiting to be tapped. "MIHAS would like to assume this role of catalyst for those who are keen to tap this potential," Wong said, adding that, there would be over 518 booths at the event. Meanwhile, the World Halal Week Conference, organised by HDC, will bring together international and local speakers to present research findings and innovative creations. "The conference provides the best avenue for the exchange of views, ideas, expertise and among halal stakeholders," HDC vice president Norhariti Jalil said. Founding director of the forum, Jumaatun Azmi, said the World Halal Forum would continue to become a platform for business leaders to raise concerns on issues and challenges faced in the industry. She said the forum has so succeeded in channelling pertinent deliberations and solutions to enhance Malaysia's leading role to develop global halal industry