São Paulo – Arab authorities unanimously recognized Brazil as a major producer and the largest global exporter of halal animal proteins. Still, they pointed to a potential yet to be explored in other categories. In in-person and video presentations, representatives of Arab embassies, the Islamic Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture (ICCIA), and an Emirati minister stated at the 2nd Global Halal Brazil Business Forum (GHB) in São Paulo that the political and economic relations between Brazil and the Arab countries allow for an expansion of this export basket in terms of volume and assortment of products. The GHB is held in partnership by the Arab-Brazilian Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) and certifier FAMBRAS Halal.
The secretary-general of the ICCIA, Yousef Hassan Khalawi, stated halal “is one of the greatest bridges to obtaining mutual respect” and that, as a halal producer, “Brazil has managed to present one of the best success stories.”
“Fifty years ago, no one imagined we were building the foundation of an industry now worth billions or trillions of dollars. And based on a detailed view of the world’s halal potential, we still have not reached the desired level,” said Khalawi. Among the existing opportunities in the halal industry, Khalawi mentioned the production and certification of dyes, preservatives, processed animal protein, and even medicines.
The vice-dean of the Council of Arab Ambassadors in Brazil and ambassador of Morocco, Nabil Adghoghi (opening picture), said the relationship between Brazil and Arab countries “goes beyond” commercial exchange and opens the path for mutual investments in different sectors, including halal. “And to achieve this goal, greater participation from the private sector would be essential to strengthen trade promotion and joint investments,” he stated, citing the need to reduce customs barriers and improve logistics integration. Adghoghi praised the role played by Brazil as president of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) in seeking an end to hostilities in the Middle East.
In a video sent especially to the GHB, the Minister of State for Foreign Trade of the United Arab Emirates, Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoud, said that his country reiterated its call for strengthening global cooperation in the halal industry in light of sustainable development goals (SDGs). “We are confident that the Global Halal Brazil Forum will make its contribution to bringing together viewpoints between partners and enhancing joint economic and investment policies to support the halal industry and strengthen its sustainable growth, thus stimulating more global investment,” he said.
The GHB is supported by the International Halal Academy, the Islamic Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, the Union of Arab Chambers, and the Arab League, and held in partnership with the Brazilian Federal Government, Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade and Services, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and ApexBrasil. Its sponsors are BRF, Marfrig, Minerva Foods, Laila Travel, Turkish Airlines, Brazilian Tourism Board (Embratur), Travel Plus, H2R Insights & Trends, World Logistic Passport (WLP), Bank ABC in Brazil, Seara, Pão & Arte, Cristal Plus, Pamunã Alimentos.
Translated by Elúsio Brasileiro
