PENANG is looking forward to growing the halal industry though is bilateral trade collaboration with China’s Henan province.
State Entrepreneurial Development, Trade and Industry Committee chairman Datuk Abdul Halim Hussain said there is room for opportunities to grow the halal industry between the state and Henan.
“Malaysia’s halal food and its halal certification are accredited worldwide. Our products are attractive to international buyers.
“We believe that the bilateral trade collaboration between Henan and Penang will benefit halal traders and consumers from both sides.
“We want to invite businesses in China to use Penang as a gateway for transhipment of halal products to reach out to global markets, such as the Middle East, Europe and North Africa.
“According to the Global Economic Report in 2020/2021, the global halal industry market is expected to grow to US$5 trillion by 2030,” Abdul Halim said in his keynote address today.
He attended the ‘Penang-Henan Trade, Investment Engagement Session’ hybrid event at Ixora Hotel in Prai.
Also present were the Chief Minister’s special investment adviser Datuk Seri Lee Kah Choon, Malaysia-Henan Chamber of Commerce chairman Derek Chong, Henan province Department of Commerce deputy director general Li Ruo Peng and Zhengzhou Municipal Bureau of Commerce deputy director Zheng Li Zhong.
According to Abdul Halim, Penang is a state with a unique blend of races, languages, and cultures.
“The Chinese community in Penang is actively involved in many associations and various chambers of commerce.
“These associations always maintain a good rapport with the state government by providing constant support and contributions.
“Penang is a friendly place to invest and to live in,” he said.
Li said it was timely for Henan and Penang to promote development together.
“We strongly believe that close cooperation between Penang and Henan will benefit everyone, in terms of trade and economy,” she said.
Meanwhile, Zheng said Penang is an important strategic partner for Zhengzhou.
“The two sides have become close in the recent years. We have carried out diversified exchanges and cooperations over the years.
“I hope that businesses in Penang and Zhengzhou will take this opportunity today to explore and strengthen the cooperation further,” Zheng said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis