{"id":24049,"date":"2026-02-25T17:48:29","date_gmt":"2026-02-25T16:48:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/anafric.es\/the-4th-international-halal-congress-opens-the-door-to-new-markets-a-strategic-opportunity-meat-companies-cannot-afford-to-miss\/"},"modified":"2026-02-25T17:48:29","modified_gmt":"2026-02-25T16:48:29","slug":"the-4th-international-halal-congress-opens-the-door-to-new-markets-a-strategic-opportunity-meat-companies-cannot-afford-to-miss","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/anafric.es\/en\/the-4th-international-halal-congress-opens-the-door-to-new-markets-a-strategic-opportunity-meat-companies-cannot-afford-to-miss\/","title":{"rendered":"The 4th International Halal Congress opens the door to new markets: a strategic opportunity meat companies cannot afford to miss"},"content":{"rendered":"

On March 24, within the framework of Alimentaria 2026<\/span><\/span>, the 4th International Halal Congress<\/strong> will take place, with the participation of ANAFRIC. We spoke with Javier Albarrac\u00edn<\/strong> about the real opportunities this market offers and why companies should attend..<\/p>\n

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The European halal market will exceed one trillion dollars in the coming years. Why is this a strategic moment for Spanish companies?<\/h3>\n

Because halal consumption in Europe is growing significantly and steadily. In addition, in the current international context \u2014 marked by commercial uncertainty, tariff tensions and logistical disruptions \u2014 Spanish companies need closer, safer and more stable markets.<\/p>\n

Europe, North Africa and the Middle East are natural proximity markets. They offer logistical security, regulatory stability and growing demand. The halal segment is not only growing, but doing so with increasing purchasing power and increasingly sophisticated consumers.<\/p>\n

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\u201cThe halal market is no longer a niche: it is a consolidated and growing segment.\u201d<\/h2>\n<\/blockquote>\n

\"Certificado<\/p>\n

Many companies still associate halal solely with religion. What are they missing?<\/h3>\n

They are missing a clear business opportunity. The European Muslim consumer is growing both in number and purchasing power. In Greater Paris and metropolitan London alone there are more than one million Muslims respectively. In Spain, the figure stands at around 2.5 million.<\/p>\n

But this is not just a demographic issue. It is a consumer who is increasingly westernized in habits and demands quality products, halal foodservice, halal fifth-range products\u2026 It is a consolidated segment, not a niche. Moreover, tourism from countries such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the Emirates or Indonesia is increasing, and these visitors demand halal options in hotels and restaurants.<\/p>\n

This is not only about religion: it is about identity, culture and business opportunity.<\/p>\n

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Which countries currently offer the greatest opportunities for the meat sector?<\/h3>\n

The most mature markets are France, the United Kingdom and Germany. Significant communities are also found in Belgium, the Netherlands, Italy and Spain.<\/p>\n

If we prioritize: the UK and France lead, followed by Germany. These are nearby markets with strong demand and a positive image of Spain as a supplier of quality, gastronomic creativity and reliability.<\/p>\n

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\u201cThe United Kingdom and France lead halal demand in Europe, with Germany close behind.\u201d<\/h2>\n<\/blockquote>\n

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What role will ANAFRIC play at the Congress?<\/h3>\n

ANAFRIC<\/span><\/span> is a strategic partner of the halal project at Alimentaria and a collaborator of the Congress. Its president will participate as a speaker in a specific session dedicated to figures and trends in halal meat consumption.<\/p>\n

An importer from the Gulf region will also attend from Dubai to present consumption trends in the Middle East, a major meat-consuming and chronically importing market.<\/p>\n

The aim is to connect Spanish supply with international demand in a context of logistical proximity and strong product reputation. It is a win-win opportunity.<\/p>\n

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\u201cThe Congress is fully business-oriented: figures, strategies and concrete opportunities.\u201d<\/h2>\n

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What would you say to a company hesitating about attending?<\/h3>\n

Do not miss the opportunity. Even if a company is not yet halal certified, it should at least understand the figures, trends and potential of this growing and nearby market.<\/p>\n

It can later decide whether to pursue certification or not, but strategic information is key. And obtaining it within the framework of Alimentaria is a unique opportunity.<\/p>\n

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The Congress includes special sessions. What practical information will companies obtain?<\/h3>\n

In addition to the meat-focused session within the Congress, three business roundtables will be held (with prior registration required):<\/p>\n