‘Fast-track Malaysia-Thailand halal trade’ Category: Home, Industry News UK & World

30/10/12 www.nst.com.my

SONGKHLA: The potential to explore halal industry opportunities between Malaysia and Thailand would be mutually beneficial and its progress should be fast-tracked, International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed said.

He added that many Thai companies had expressed interest in investing and exploring the halal market in Malaysia, not just in the food industry but also cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and banking.

“There was a lot of promise after a seminar in Bangkok on halal industry opportunities earlier this year, but the progress since has been slow.

“Both parties are interested in fast-tracking this collaboration and hopefully we can have some concrete deals soon,” he said during a meeting with representatives from Malaysian companies here yesterday.

Later, he held a closed-door meeting with seven Thai companies on investment potential in other areas between the two countries.

Mustapa is on a two-day trade mission to Thailand and will be presenting the keynote address at the Malaysia-Thailand Bilateral Cooperation and Business Opportunities in Halal seminar in Hat Yai today.

More than 150 Thai companies are expected to attend the seminar.

There, he will be meeting Thailand’s Commerce Minister Boonsong Teriyapirom to further discuss areas for cooperation.