July-August. 2025 | @ Halal

LIFESTYLE

� Food Expo PRO 2025 will feature around 100 exhibitors in a dedicated halal section, reflecting the growing global demand for halal products.

� The event partners with the Islamic Community Fund of Hong Kong to certify local restaurants, while Kowloon Shangri-La shares its halal-friendly practices.

� Positioned as a gateway to China and ASEAN, the expo offers a strategic platform for halal businesses to expand and connect globally.

BY FARISHA RAHMAN

Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council( HKTDC), the dual event will take place from Aug 14- 16, 2025, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Known as one of Asia’ s most significant food trade events, this year’ s edition features a dedicated halal section that is expected to attract strong interest from Muslim consumers and industry players alike.

As halal-certified products continue gaining global attention for their quality, safety, and ethical standards, the expo is taking notable steps to accommodate the rising demand.

With approximately 100 exhibitors showcasing halal-certified products, ranging from snacks and condiments to seafood, the expo highlights the growing importance of halal offerings in the international food and beverage( F & B) sector.

This development comes as more international markets begin to recognise the commercial and cultural value of halal food. With a global Muslim population exceeding 1.9 billion, the halal market is no longer seen as niche. It is a thriving segment that spans multiple sectors, including food, hospitality, finance, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.

HALAL HOSPITALITY

Hong Kong has steadily been strengthening its position as a halal-friendly city, both for tourism and trade. At this year’ s expo, the renowned Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel, awarded a five-star rating as a Halal Friendly Hotel by Crescent Rating, will share its approach to crafting exceptional halal culinary experiences for Muslim guests.

From sourcing certified halal ingredients to maintaining proper food preparation practices, the hotel’ s case study offers valuable insights into what makes a halal-friendly service truly stand out.

Additionally, the expo will feature

HALAL HOSPITALITY: Kowloon Shangri-La shares best practices in delivering exceptional halal-friendly dining experiences for Muslim guests.

a special partnership with The Incorporated Trustees of the Islamic Community Fund of Hong Kong. As part of this collaboration, halal certificates will be presented to several local restaurants, further reinforcing efforts to mainstream halal standards across the city’ s F & B establishments.

This recognition is particularly timely as Muslim travellers increasingly seek out destinations that cater to both their dietary and spiritual needs. For many, the availability of halal food is a key factor in deciding which travel destinations to choose. With initiatives like these, Hong Kong is well-positioned to be a top choice for Muslim tourists and business travellers alike.

FOOD INNOVATION

In line with global trends, the expo also explores how innovation can support inclusivity in the F & B sector. One of the most exciting features this year is the Food Science and Technology zone, which showcases the latest advancements in alternative proteins, food-tech packaging, and silver economy products, including soft meals and supplements.

While not strictly under the halal umbrella, these innovations can be adapted to meet halal standards, offering opportunities for halal-certified food manufacturers to diversify their offerings.

The fair’ s expanded halal section also reflects a broader movement within the global halal economy. It is a movement that champions transparency, ethical sourcing, and cross-cultural collaboration.

As consumers become increasingly informed and conscious about their consumption, halal certification serves as both a religious requirement and a symbol of trust and quality.

STRATEGIC TRADE PLATFORM

More than just a trade show, the Food Expo PRO provides a comprehensive business platform for buyers, sellers and stakeholders in the F & B and halal industries. With over 2,000 exhibitors expected to attend across five concurrent fairs, including the Beauty and Wellness Expo and the Home Delights Expo, the event presents a golden opportunity for halal brands to expand their footprint in Asia, particularly in Mainland China and the ASEAN region.

The expo’ s hybrid format under the HKTDC’ s EXHIBITION + model also ensures wider accessibility. Participants can continue engaging through the online innovative business matching platform, Click2Match, from Aug 7-23. This allows businesses to initiate partnerships, explore export opportunities, and share expertise beyond the physical event days.

FUTURE OF HALAL

The Food Expo PRO and its dedicated halal initiatives demonstrate how the halal industry is evolving not only in scope but in sophistication. From high-end hotel dining to certified neighbourhood eateries, halal food in Hong Kong is growing in presence and prestige.

As the global halal economy continues to flourish, platforms like this expo play a vital role in driving awareness, encouraging investment, and fostering cross-border collaboration. For corporate players, entrepreneurs, and consumers alike, the message is clear. The halal industry is not just growing. It is thriving and here to stay.

Whether you are a halal-certified brand looking to expand or a business aiming to tap into a dynamic consumer base, Food Expo PRO is a must-visit event this August. It is where innovation meets tradition and where the halal industry steps confidently into the global spotlight.-