Executive Summary
The Muslim Trade Forum (MTF) proudly participated in Alimentaria Barcelona, one of Europe’s largest and most influential food, beverage and hospitality trade exhibitions. Through its involvement in the 4th International Halal Congress, MTF reinforced its position as a leading voice for the UK’s Muslim business community, representing British industry on an international stage and contributing to discussions shaping the future of the global halal economy.
About Alimentaria Barcelona
Alimentaria Barcelona is one of the world’s premier international trade exhibitions for the food, beverage and hospitality sectors. Held biennially in Barcelona, Spain, the exhibition attracts manufacturers, retailers, importers, exporters, distributors, investors and policymakers from across the globe.
The 2024 edition marked Alimentaria’s 50th anniversary under the theme “Feeding the Future.”
Key Statistics
- Over 109,600 professional visitors
- More than 3,300 exhibiting companies
- Visitors from over 120 countries
- One of Europe’s leading platforms for international food trade, innovation and investment
The exhibition provides businesses with opportunities to develop international partnerships, explore emerging markets, showcase innovation and discuss the future of the global food industry.
The 4th International Halal Congress
Running alongside Alimentaria, the 4th International Halal Congress brought together government representatives, certification bodies, manufacturers, retailers, academics and business leaders to discuss the future of the rapidly expanding global halal sector.
Topics Included
- International halal standards and certification
- Innovation within halal food production
- Sustainability
- Supply chain integrity
- International trade opportunities
- Consumer trends
- Investment across halal industries
MTF’s Participation
The Muslim Trade Forum was invited to contribute to high-level discussions at the 4th International Halal Congress, reflecting its growing reputation as a leading representative organisation for Muslim businesses in the United Kingdom.
MTF Chair Sir Iqbal Sacranie OBE participated in a strategic roundtable exploring opportunities for the UK halal sector and the country’s role in supporting international halal trade. Discussions highlighted the rapid growth of the halal economy, driven by increasing consumer demand, market expansion, and a greater focus on quality, sustainability, innovation and ethical production. The roundtable recognised that halal has become a mainstream global industry, requiring stronger collaboration between businesses, policymakers and international institutions.
As part of the Congress programme, Deena Ataie, Managing Director of Heriots Patisserie, represented the United Kingdom on the panel “Innovation and Diversification as Key Drivers for Halal Growth.” Moderated by Javier Albarracín of Barcelona Halal Services, the session brought together international industry leaders to discuss how innovation, product diversification and collaboration can drive the future of the halal sector. Deena shared insights from the UK food industry, highlighting the importance of premium products, innovation and export opportunities, further strengthening the international profile of both Heriots Patisserie and the Muslim Trade Forum.
MTF’s Contribution and Success
MTF’s participation demonstrated the organisation’s growing international profile and its commitment to promoting British Muslim enterprise.
The Forum successfully:
- Represented UK Muslim businesses at one of Europe’s most prestigious international food exhibitions.
- Contributed to strategic discussions influencing the future direction of the halal economy.
- Strengthened relationships with international halal organisations, industry leaders and policymakers.
- Promoted the UK as a centre for halal trade, investment and innovation.
- Enhanced opportunities for future international collaboration and market access for British businesses.
The event also enabled valuable networking with global stakeholders, creating new opportunities for knowledge sharing and future commercial partnerships.
Building International Partnerships
MTF extends its sincere appreciation to Javier Albarracín of Barcelona Halal Services for hosting and facilitating an important platform for dialogue and collaboration.
Such partnerships are essential in strengthening international cooperation, encouraging best practice and supporting the continued growth of the global halal ecosystem.
Looking Ahead
The global halal economy continues to experience significant expansion across food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, tourism, finance and hospitality.
MTF remains committed to ensuring that the United Kingdom is well positioned to benefit from these opportunities by:
- Connecting businesses with international markets.
- Supporting trade and investment.
- Promoting high standards and innovation.
- Encouraging collaboration between industry, government and international partners.
- Championing the interests of British Muslim businesses on the global stage.
MTF’s participation at Alimentaria Barcelona and the 4th International Halal Congress demonstrated the organisation’s growing influence in international halal trade and its ongoing commitment to strengthening the UK’s position within the global halal economy. Through leadership, collaboration, innovation and strategic partnerships, MTF continues to create new opportunities for British Muslim businesses while fostering sustainable growth and international engagement.
