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HALAL ECONOMY

Halal Beauty’s Rise Amidst the €400 Billion Global Beauty Market Boom

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1 year ago

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The global beauty industry is on an unstoppable trajectory, with an estimated worth of €400 billion by 2030, according to the L’Oréal CEO. As this colossal industry continues to evolve, it’s essential to dissect the impact this growth will have on specific segments, particularly the burgeoning halal beauty sector. The Halal beauty market has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, driven by changing consumer preferences and an increasing awareness of ethical and religious concerns. Let’s delve into the implications and opportunities presented by the rising tide of the global beauty market for the Halal beauty industry.

The Halal Beauty Industry Today:

Halal beauty, which adheres to Islamic principles, focuses on products free from ingredients that are considered ‘haram’ (forbidden) in Islam. These products cater not only to Muslims but also to a growing number of non-Muslim consumers who value ethical and eco-friendly cosmetics. The market includes skincare, haircare, makeup, and fragrances produced with strict adherence to Halal standards, ensuring ingredients are sourced and processed by Islamic law.

Key Factors Driving the Halal Beauty Market:

  1. Global Muslim Population: The Muslim population is projected to reach 2.2 billion by 2030. As Muslims become more affluent and cosmopolitan, their demand for Halal-certified beauty products is surging.
  2. Rising Awareness: Consumers worldwide are increasingly conscious of the ingredients in their cosmetics, seeking products that are cruelty-free, eco-friendly, and free from harmful chemicals. Halal beauty products often align with these values.
  3. Inclusivity: Halal beauty products, with their emphasis on ethical sourcing and sustainable practices, appeal to a broader consumer base beyond religious considerations.

Impact of the Growing Beauty Market on Halal Beauty:

  1. Increased Market Share: As the overall beauty market expands, the Halal beauty segment is poised to capture a larger share of this growth. It will not only cater to the growing Muslim population but also attract non-Muslim consumers seeking ethical and eco-conscious alternatives.
  2. Innovation and Research: The rise in the global beauty market will spur innovation in Halal beauty products. Companies will invest in research and development to create competitive offerings, resulting in higher-quality Halal cosmetics.
  3. Market Expansion: As demand for Halal beauty grows, more brands will emerge, and existing cosmetics companies may extend their product lines to include Halal-certified options. This expansion will lead to greater diversity and availability of Halal beauty products worldwide.
  4. Global Awareness: The surging beauty market will raise awareness of Halal beauty among consumers, even those outside traditionally Muslim-majority regions. This increased awareness can lead to broader acceptance and adoption of these products.

Challenges and Opportunities:

While the growth of the global beauty market bodes well for the Halal beauty segment, there are challenges to address:

  1. Certification Standards: Maintaining consistent and reliable Halal certification standards will be crucial to ensure the integrity of Halal beauty products.
  2. Competition: As the market expands, competition within the Halal beauty sector will intensify. Brands will need to differentiate themselves through innovation and unique value propositions.
  3. Consumer Education: Educating consumers about the benefits of Halal beauty and its alignment with ethical and eco-conscious values will be vital to attracting a wider customer base.

The ascent of the global beauty market to €400 billion by 2030 heralds a promising era for the Halal beauty industry. With a growing Muslim population, increasing awareness of ethical and eco-friendly practices, and expanding inclusivity, Halal beauty is well-positioned to thrive. To harness the full potential of this growth, companies in the Halal beauty sector must continue to innovate, maintain rigorous certification standards, and focus on educating consumers about the advantages of Halal beauty products. As the world becomes more conscious of what it puts on its skin, the Halal beauty industry can confidently ride the wave of the global beauty market’s ascent.


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HALAL ECONOMY

Makkah Halal Knowledge Hub – Abdullah Kamel’s Vision for Industry Growth

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2 weeks ago

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March 4, 2025

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 Aamer Yaqub

Imagine Makkah not just as a spiritual center but as the go-to place for all things halal. That’s exactly what’s happening! Sheikh Abdullah bin Saleh Kamel just announced a big plan: turning Makkah into a world-leading “Halal Knowledge Hub.” Think of it as a powerhouse of halal expertise, where businesses and experts from across the globe can connect and learn. This isn’t just about selling more halal products; it’s about setting a whole new standard for the industry. Let’s break down how Makkah is stepping up to lead the global halal market.

“The revered status of the Two Holy Mosques fuels our limitless ambitions,” Sheikh Kamel stated, his words resonating with a sense of purpose and determination. “We envision Makkah as the central point for halal knowledge, empowering industries and services globally.” This initiative aligns seamlessly with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a transformative national strategy that emphasizes economic diversification, sustainable development, and the cultivation of key sectors, including the halal industry, as a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s future prosperity.

Building a Robust Global Halal Knowledge Infrastructure

At the heart of Sheikh Kamel’s vision lies the creation of a comprehensive Halal Knowledge Hub, a dynamic platform designed to:

  • Disseminate Expertise: Serve as a central repository for the latest halal standards, best practices, research findings, and innovative solutions, making this knowledge accessible to a global audience.
  • Foster Innovation: Encourage and support cutting-edge research and development in halal products and services, driving the sector towards greater innovation and technological advancement.
  • Empower Businesses: Provide comprehensive training programs, valuable resources, and strategic networking opportunities for halal businesses of all sizes, empowering them to thrive in the global marketplace.
  • Establish Unparalleled Quality Standards: Elevate Makkah and Madinah as symbols of halal quality and excellence, setting a new global standard for the industry and reinforcing consumer trust.

“We aim to embrace talent and innovation,” Sheikh Kamel emphasized, highlighting the importance of fostering a culture of creativity and collaboration. “By launching trusted products, services, and initiatives on a global scale, we leverage Makkah’s unique position as the heart of the Muslim world, creating a powerful platform for positive change.”

The Exploding Global Halal Market – A $10 Trillion Opportunity Beckons

The significance of this initiative is underscored by the explosive growth of the global halal market, a sector that is rapidly transforming the global economy. Minister of Commerce Dr. Majed Al-Qasabi, also speaking at the forum, highlighted the sector’s remarkable expansion, providing compelling data that reinforces the urgency and importance of Makkah’s Halal Knowledge Hub.

“The halal sector is one of the fastest-growing sectors globally,” Dr. Al-Qasabi stated, citing concrete data to support his assertion. “In 2024, the halal products market, encompassing food, cosmetics, and services, reached approximately $7 trillion. Projections indicate it will surge to $10 trillion by 2030, with an annual growth rate of 5.5 percent.”

This rapid expansion, Dr. Al-Qasabi noted, transcends geographical boundaries, making the halal sector a focal point for businesses worldwide, regardless of their religious or cultural affiliations. The halal market is not limited to food; it encompasses a diverse range of sectors, including halal finance, halal tourism, halal cosmetics, and halal pharmaceuticals, creating a vast and interconnected ecosystem. These secondary keywords will increase the article’s search engine ranking and visibility.

Makkah’s Strategic Advantage: A Center of Unwavering Trust

Makkah’s unique position as the spiritual heart of Islam provides a significant strategic advantage in establishing a Halal Knowledge Hub. Its inherent trust and spiritual inspiration make it an ideal location for disseminating halal knowledge, setting global standards, and fostering a sense of unity and collaboration within the industry.

Sheikh Kamel stressed that “Makkah is in everyone’s hearts, the destination of every Muslim man and woman.” This emotional connection, combined with the city’s historical significance and spiritual resonance, creates a powerful platform for launching global halal initiatives, ensuring their widespread acceptance and impact.

The Makkah Halal Forum: A Catalyst for Knowledge Sharing

The Makkah Halal Forum itself serves as a crucial catalyst for industry growth and knowledge sharing, bringing together key stakeholders from around the world to discuss the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the halal sector. Sheikh Kamel emphasized its importance as an annual event, with planning for each edition commencing immediately after the previous one concludes, ensuring continuous improvement and relevance.

“Early communication with the work team is the only way to ensure the success of the next edition,” he noted, highlighting the proactive and collaborative approach that underpins the forum’s success and its role in driving the Halal Knowledge Hub vision.

Vision 2030: A Transformative Framework for Halal Industry Development

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plays a pivotal role in shaping the Halal Knowledge Hub initiative, providing a comprehensive and transformative framework for the development of the halal industry as a key pillar of the Kingdom’s economic diversification strategy. The vision’s focus on economic diversification, sustainable development, and the cultivation of non-oil sectors provides a supportive environment for the halal industry’s growth and innovation.

“Vision 2030 has provided us with a new dimension of ambition, inspiration, and facilitation,” Sheikh Kamel stated, highlighting the alignment between the Halal Knowledge Hub initiative and the Kingdom’s broader national development goals. This alignment ensures that the Halal Knowledge Hub contributes to the broader economic transformation of Saudi Arabia, creating new opportunities for growth and prosperity.

Key Components of the Halal Knowledge Hub

The Halal Knowledge Hub will encompass a comprehensive ecosystem of interconnected components designed to address the diverse needs of the global halal industry:

  1. Certification and Standardization: Developing globally recognized halal certification standards and accreditation processes, ensuring consistency, transparency, and consumer trust.
  2. Research and Development: Investing in cutting-edge research and development initiatives to develop innovative halal products and services, addressing emerging market demands and technological advancements.
  3. Training and Education: Providing comprehensive training programs for halal professionals, entrepreneurs, and businesses, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the global marketplace.
  4. Data and Analytics: Establishing a comprehensive database of halal market information, trends, and consumer insights, providing valuable data for businesses and policymakers.
  5. Technology Integration: Leveraging advanced technologies, such as blockchain and artificial intelligence, to enhance halal traceability, transparency, and supply chain integrity.
  6. Investment and Funding: Attracting strategic investment and funding to support the growth of halal businesses, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
The Transformative Impact of the Halal Knowledge Hub

The establishment of a Halal Knowledge Hub in Makkah is expected to have a profound and transformative impact on the global halal industry, creating new opportunities for growth, innovation, and collaboration:

  • Increased Market Access: Facilitating access to global markets for halal businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), by providing them with the necessary resources and certifications.
  • Enhanced Consumer Trust: Promoting transparency, accountability, and ethical practices throughout the halal supply chain, building consumer confidence, and safeguarding the integrity of the halal brand.
  • Economic Growth: Creating new jobs, attracting foreign investment, and stimulating economic growth in the halal sector, contributing to the overall prosperity of the region and the global economy.
  • Innovation and Development: Driving innovation in halal products and services, fostering the development of new technologies, and addressing the evolving needs of the global halal consumer.
  • Global Leadership: Makkah should be positioned as a global leader in the halal industry, setting the standards for excellence and shaping the future of the sector.
The Future of the Halal Industry: A Vision for Sustainable Growth

The Halal Knowledge Hub in Makkah represents a significant step towards the sustainable and inclusive growth of the global halal industry, ensuring that the benefits of this dynamic sector are shared by all. By fostering knowledge sharing, innovation, and collaboration, Makkah is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the halal industry, creating a more prosperous and equitable world. The aim is to create a truly global hub and to make sure that the halal standard that comes from Makkah is the highest possible standard.

The creation of an accessible and comprehensive educational platform, available both online and in person, is a key metric in the successful establishment of the hub. This platform will empower individuals and organizations from all over the world to access the valuable knowledge and resources contained within the hub, fostering a global community of halal experts and practitioners.

The ultimate aim is to establish the Halal Knowledge Hub as the de facto location for any organization involved in the Halal industry, creating a central point of reference and fostering a culture of excellence. This will significantly increase the overall quality and integrity of the halal industry, benefiting consumers and businesses alike. The vision for Makkah’s Halal Knowledge Hub extends beyond immediate economic gains, aiming to create a lasting legacy of ethical and sustainable practices within the halal industry.

This initiative is not merely about market expansion; it’s about establishing a foundation for responsible growth, ensuring that halal products and services adhere to the highest standards of quality, integrity, and social responsibility. The hub will serve as a beacon of transparency, promoting ethical sourcing, fair labor practices, and environmentally sustainable production methods. By empowering businesses with the knowledge and resources to adopt these practices, Makkah will play a crucial role in shaping a more responsible and equitable halal ecosystem.

Furthermore, the Halal Knowledge Hub will foster a culture of collaboration and knowledge sharing, bringing together industry leaders, researchers, policymakers, and consumers from around the world. This collaborative approach will accelerate innovation, promote best practices, and address the challenges facing the halal industry.

The hub will also play a crucial role in educating consumers about the benefits and values of halal products and services. By increasing consumer awareness and understanding, Makkah will contribute to the growth of a conscious and discerning halal consumer base.

The impact of the Halal Knowledge Hub will extend beyond the halal industry itself, contributing to the broader development of the global economy. By fostering innovation, creating jobs, and promoting sustainable practices, Makkah will play a vital role in building a more prosperous and equitable world.

The Halal Knowledge Hub: Building a Legacy of Excellence

The ultimate vision is to create a Halal Knowledge Hub that serves as a global model for excellence, innovation, and ethical leadership. By embodying the values of Islam—compassion, justice, and integrity—Makkah will inspire businesses and consumers worldwide to embrace a more responsible and sustainable approach to the halal industry.

In essence, Makkah’s Halal Knowledge Hub is designed for lasting impact. Its future relies on staying adaptable to the changing halal market, integrating new tech, and promoting continuous improvement. This isn’t just about buildings; it’s about building a living network of knowledge, innovation, and collaboration. By investing in people, partnerships, and ethical practices, Makkah aims to leave a lasting positive mark on the halal industry, ensuring that the hub remains a key resource for the halal sector for years to come. This focus on adaptability and ecosystem building is critical for any organization that wants to be a global Halal Knowledge Hub.

Courtesy: the Halal Times


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HALAL ECONOMY

Morocco Livestock Imports Soar Sheep & Cow Shipments Reach 4.8 Billion Dirhams

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3 weeks ago

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February 23, 2025

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 Aamer Yaqub

Morocco’s dinner tables are a vibrant tapestry of flavors, with fragrant tagines and sizzling skewers showcasing the country’s rich culinary heritage. However, a key ingredient – red meat – has recently become a source of concern for both consumers and policymakers, particularly as Morocco Livestock Imports have surged to meet growing domestic demand.

Morocco witnessed a dramatic surge in livestock imports in 2024 in response to a significant market shortage. This in-depth exploration delves into the factors driving this import boom, its impact on the market, and the long-term implications for Morocco’s agricultural sector, examining this critical issue’s economic, social, and environmental dimensions.

A Booming Appetite for Red Meat

Moroccan cuisine revolves around fresh, flavorful ingredients. Lamb and beef are central to many beloved dishes, from the slow-cooked comfort of méchoui (roasted lamb) to the delicate balance of spices in a pastilla (savory pastry). However, consumer demand for red meat has been steadily outpacing domestic production in recent years, creating a complex challenge with multifaceted origins.

  • Climate Change and Aridity: Morocco’s climate, characterized by arid and semi-arid conditions, poses significant challenges to livestock rearing. Erratic rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts, and rising temperatures have severely impacted grazing lands, leading to diminished forage availability and increased water scarcity. These environmental stressors directly affect livestock health, productivity, and overall herd size.
  • Population Growth and Urbanization: Morocco’s rapidly growing population, coupled with rapid urbanization, has exerted immense pressure on agricultural land. As urban centers expand, arable land is increasingly being converted for housing, industrial development, and infrastructure, reducing the land available for livestock grazing and feed production. This land-use change further exacerbates the challenges faced by livestock farmers.
  • Changing Dietary Habits: Shifting consumer preferences and dietary habits are also contributing to the increased demand for red meat. As incomes rise and urbanization progresses, consumers are increasingly adopting more Westernized diets, which often include a higher proportion of meat. This shift in dietary patterns, coupled with growing consumer awareness of food safety and quality, has fueled demand for higher-quality cuts of meat, further straining domestic supply chains.
  • Social and Cultural Factors: Red meat plays a significant role in Moroccan social and cultural life. It is a central feature of many festive occasions, religious holidays, and social gatherings. These cultural norms contribute to a strong demand for red meat, particularly during peak seasons, further exacerbating market fluctuations.

The result of these converging factors has been a steady increase in red meat prices, putting a significant strain on household budgets, particularly for low-income families. For many Moroccans, red meat is a staple food, and rising prices can force families to reduce their consumption, impacting their nutritional intake and dietary diversity. This can have significant implications for public health, particularly for children and vulnerable populations who rely on red meat as a primary source of protein and essential nutrients.

A Short-Term Solution with Long-Term Implications

To address the escalating market shortage and stabilize prices, the Moroccan government took decisive action in late 2023, authorizing breeders to import sheep and cows from international markets. This move has had a swift and significant impact on the livestock sector.

According to the Exchange Office, Morocco’s livestock import bill ballooned to MAD 4.8 billion (around $480 million) by the end of November 2024. This represents a staggering 83% increase compared to the MAD 2.6 billion spent during the same period in 2023, highlighting the scale of the government’s intervention and the growing reliance on imports to meet domestic demand.

The volume of imports has also witnessed a dramatic surge. Figures indicate that Morocco imported a staggering 110,000 tonnes of livestock (excluding VAT and customs duties) by November 2024, a significant increase compared to the 60,000 tonnes imported in the previous year. Notably, during the crucial Eid al-Adha festival in 2024, Morocco imported around 600,000 sheep for sacrifice from Spain and Romania, underscoring the government’s commitment to ensuring adequate supply during peak demand periods.

Strategic Partnerships and Quality Control

To ensure a steady flow of high-quality livestock, Morocco has established import deals with several countries renowned for their cattle and sheep breeding practices. These include Spain, Brazil, Uruguay, France, Romania, and Portugal. These countries boast advanced agricultural practices, including improved breeding techniques, access to better quality feed, and robust veterinary care systems, leading to higher quality livestock and enhanced production efficiency.

The National Office for Food Safety (ONSSA) plays a crucial role in this process, ensuring that imported meat adheres to strict health standards and Halal certification, aligning with Morocco’s religious dietary requirements. Rigorous inspections are conducted at various stages, from farm to fork, to guarantee the safety and quality of imported meat. This includes checks for foodborne pathogens, antibiotic residues, and adherence to international food safety standards.

The influx of imported meat has had a noticeable impact on market prices. Slaughterhouses have reported a decrease in red meat prices, with prices ranging from MAD 85 to 89 per kilogram ($8-$9). This compares favorably to imported meat from Brazil, which sits between MAD 70 and 75 per kilogram ($7-$7.5). However, retail prices still vary considerably, ranging from MAD 85 to 140 per kilogram ($8.5-$14), indicating a potential disconnect between wholesale and consumer prices.

This price disparity raises concerns about potential market inefficiencies and the need for improved market transparency and regulation to ensure that the benefits of lower import costs are effectively transmitted to consumers.

Long-Term Strategies for Sustainability

While the import surge has provided some immediate relief to market pressures and helped stabilize prices, it is crucial to recognize that imports can only serve as a short-term solution. A sustainable and long-term approach to ensuring a secure and affordable supply of red meat for Morocco requires a multi-pronged strategy that addresses the root causes of the current challenges.

  • Boosting Domestic Production:
    • Investing in Research and Development: Funding research and development initiatives to improve livestock breeds, develop drought-resistant varieties, and enhance feed efficiency is crucial. This includes investing in genetic improvement programs, developing drought-tolerant fodder crops, and exploring alternative feeding strategies to enhance livestock productivity and resilience.
    • Modernizing Livestock Farming: Promoting the adoption of modern farming practices, such as improved grazing management, rotational grazing, and the use of drought-tolerant fodder crops, can enhance productivity and sustainability. This includes investing in infrastructure such as improved water management systems, fencing, and animal shelters to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
    • Supporting Smallholder Farmers: Providing access to credit, technical assistance, and market linkages can empower smallholder farmers, who play a vital role in livestock production, to improve their livelihoods and contribute to domestic meat supply. This includes supporting the development of farmer cooperatives, providing access to modern farming equipment, and facilitating access to markets for their products.
  • Strengthening the Agricultural Value Chain:
    • Investing in Cold Chain Infrastructure: Expanding and modernizing cold storage facilities across the country is crucial to minimize post-harvest losses and ensure the quality and safety of meat throughout the supply chain.
    • Improving Transportation: Investing in refrigerated transport vehicles and improving transportation infrastructure can ensure that meat reaches markets quickly and efficiently, maintaining its freshness and quality and reducing spoilage.
  • Promoting Sustainable Consumption and Production:
    • Diversifying Protein Sources: Educating consumers about sustainable consumption practices, such as reducing meat consumption, choosing locally sourced products, and exploring alternative protein sources such as legumes, pulses, and plant-based meat alternatives, can help to reduce pressure on domestic resources and promote a more balanced and sustainable diet.
    • Raising Awareness about Nutrition: Raising awareness about the nutritional value of different cuts of meat and promoting healthy eating habits can encourage consumers to make informed choices and reduce waste.
  • Strengthening Market Regulation and Transparency:
    • Implementing Robust Market Surveillance: Implementing robust market surveillance mechanisms can help to identify and address price manipulation, ensure fair pricing for both producers and consumers and prevent the exploitation of consumers.
    • Promoting Fair Trade Practices: Fostering fair trade practices and supporting the development of farmer cooperatives can empower producers and ensure they receive a fair share of the value chain.
  • Addressing Climate Change:
    • Implementing Climate-Smart Agricultural Practices: Promoting climate-smart agricultural practices, such as agroforestry, sustainable grazing management, and the use of renewable energy sources, can help mitigate the impacts of climate change on livestock production and reduce the environmental footprint of the sector.

Balancing Short-Term Needs with Long-Term Sustainability

Morocco’s red meat import surge serves as a stark reminder of the complex challenges facing the country’s agricultural sector. While imports offer a temporary solution to address immediate market shortages and stabilize prices, they cannot be considered a long-term solution.

A sustainable and resilient agricultural sector requires a multi-pronged approach that addresses the root causes of the current challenges, including climate change, population growth, and changing consumer demands. By investing in domestic production, strengthening the agricultural value chain, promoting sustainable consumption, and addressing the environmental impacts of livestock production, Morocco can ensure a secure, affordable, and sustainable supply of red meat for future generations.

The surge in Morocco’s livestock imports highlights the complex interplay of economic, social, and environmental factors.

Courtesy: Halal Times


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HALAL ECONOMY

Philippines Launches National Halal Office to Strengthen Global Market Presence

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4 weeks ago

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February 16, 2025

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What if the Philippines could tap into a $7 trillion global market and become a key player? With the launch of the Philippines National Halal Office (NHIDO), this vision is becoming a reality. This bold move positions the Philippines as a contender in the growing halal economy—an ecosystem that extends beyond food to include fashion, cosmetics, wellness, and tourism. Backed by its rich resources, skilled workforce, and government support, the Philippines is poised to become a major hub for halal products and services worldwide.

With the halal economy now valued at over $7 trillion, the Philippines aims to capture a significant share of this booming sector. The halal industry spans essential sectors such as food, beverages, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and even travel and tourism. The growing demand for halal products is fueled by increasing awareness of ethical consumption, health, and hygiene among Muslims and non-Muslims alike. By launching the NHIDO, the government is building a foundation for sustained growth, job creation, and stronger export capabilities. The Philippines already boasts a robust base of halal-certified products, including coconut oil, baked goods, wellness items, and beauty products that have captured attention in major halal markets like Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

Why the Philippines Launched the National Halal Office

The Philippines is a predominantly Catholic nation, but its Muslim population of 12 million people provides a strong domestic base for halal production. Recognizing the enormous potential of the global halal economy, the government established the Philippines National Halal Office (NHIDO) to spearhead initiatives that will transform the country into a halal industry powerhouse.

According to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the primary mission of NHIDO is to “propel the Philippines to the forefront of the global halal industry by 2025.” The office will focus on boosting the country’s exports, attracting investments, and increasing job creation. This ambitious goal is supported by key economic targets:

  • Doubling the number of halal-certified products and services.
  • Generating 120,000 new jobs by 2028.
  • Attracting 230 billion pesos ($3.9 billion) in investments for halal industry development.

Dimnatang M. Radia, the DTI’s Halal Industry and Trade Office Program Manager, described the launch of the NHIDO as a “turning point” for the country. According to him, the office will act as a unifying force to transform goals into reality, unlocking opportunities for businesses, creating jobs, and establishing the Philippines as a halal-friendly destination on a global scale.

The Role of the Philippines National Halal Office (NHIDO)

The Philippines National Halal Office serves as the country’s central coordinating body for all halal-related efforts. Its role extends beyond product certification. The NHIDO will lead efforts in marketing, promotion, certification, product development, and capacity-building for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Here are its key responsibilities:

  1. Streamlining Halal Certification: The NHIDO will simplify and speed up the halal certification process for local businesses. This move aims to eliminate barriers for Filipino companies seeking to enter lucrative foreign markets, especially those in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa (MENA). By working closely with halal certification bodies, the NHIDO ensures that Filipino companies can meet international standards without excessive delays or costs.
  2. Nationwide Marketing Campaigns: The NHIDO will launch a “Halal-Friendly Philippines” campaign to raise awareness of the economic potential of halal products. This initiative targets local and international audiences, ensuring that the Philippines becomes a preferred sourcing destination for halal-certified goods. The campaign will showcase the quality and diversity of Filipino halal products, especially at trade expos and exhibitions abroad.
  3. Promoting Halal-Friendly Tourism: In addition to promoting products, the NHIDO will position the Philippines as a halal-friendly tourist destination. This effort includes encouraging halal-compliant hotels, food establishments, and travel services to cater to Muslim travelers from around the world. The tourism sector will benefit from upgraded facilities, prayer spaces, and halal-certified dining options, enhancing the country’s attractiveness to Muslim tourists.
  4. Capacity Building for SMEs: Filipino SMEs are at the heart of the halal growth strategy. The NHIDO will provide training, financial support, and certification assistance to SMEs, enabling them to enter the global halal supply chain. By empowering local businesses, the NHIDO aims to develop a competitive and inclusive halal industry.
  5. International Trade Participation: Participation in international exhibitions and trade fairs is a key priority. The Philippines has already showcased its products at global halal trade shows in Malaysia and Saudi Arabia, giving it much-needed visibility and connecting local exporters with international buyers and investors. Future partnerships with major buyers in OIC member countries will further boost export opportunities.

Halal-Certified Products That Are Driving Growth

The Philippines has long been known for its high-quality agricultural products, and now, many of them are gaining recognition in the halal economy. The following products are leading the country’s export growth:

  • Coconut Products: The Philippines is one of the world’s leading coconut producers, and its coconut oil, coconut water, and other coconut-based products are in high demand globally. Halal certification opens access to larger markets, especially in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
  • Processed Foods: The country’s food processing sector is recognized for its ability to produce baked goods, confectioneries, and ready-to-eat snacks. With halal certification, these items become more attractive to global markets.
  • Wellness and Beauty Products: Halal beauty products have witnessed rapid growth in recent years. The Philippines aims to capitalize on this trend by certifying health supplements, skincare products, and cosmetics for export.

For local businesses, the Philippines National Halal Office represents a gateway to new opportunities. SMEs, in particular, stand to gain significantly from this initiative. Here’s how the NHIDO supports Filipino businesses:

  1. Certification Assistance: The NHIDO will simplify the process for local manufacturers to obtain halal certification, opening the door to major export markets.
  2. Access to Global Markets: By participating in international trade exhibitions, Filipino businesses can secure contracts with buyers from countries like Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
  3. Financial Support and Training: Capacity-building programs will equip Filipino entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge they need to navigate the halal economy.

The Challenges of Building a Halal Industry

Like any ambitious endeavor, the Philippines faces challenges in growing its halal economy. Some of the biggest hurdles include:

  • Certification Bottlenecks: Companies often face lengthy processes and costly fees for obtaining halal certification.
  • Limited Awareness: Many Filipino SMEs have limited knowledge of the requirements to produce and market halal-certified products.
  • Traceability Issues: Ensuring that halal products are traceable throughout the supply chain is critical, especially for food exports.

To overcome these challenges, the NHIDO is focusing on building partnerships with international halal certification bodies, offering training programs, and ensuring full transparency in the certification process.

Global Impact and the Road Ahead

The Philippines National Halal Office is positioning the country as a leading player in the global halal economy. By 2028, the government aims to double its halal-certified exports, generate 120,000 jobs, and attract billions of pesos in investments.

Through the combined efforts of the NHIDO, local manufacturers, and government bodies like the DTI, the Philippines is carving out a strong position in the global halal market. The strategy is clear: create a halal-friendly Philippines that attracts tourists, investors, and buyers from every corner of the globe.

With a focus on halal-certified products like coconut-based goods, processed foods, wellness items, and beauty products, the Philippines is poised for significant growth in the halal industry. By tapping into its rich natural resources, skilled workforce, and government-backed support, the Philippines is strengthening its position as a leading halal production hub. As demand for halal products continues to surge globally, the Philippines is ready to meet the challenge and seize the opportunity, creating new jobs, fostering SME growth, and driving sustainable economic development for a more prosperous future.


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