Halal industry roundup: Malaysia to help Timor-Leste develop halal industry
Here's a roundup of key developments across the halal industry ecosystem during the month of December
Editor's Note: That Malaysia is a paragon of a thriving halal landscape is stating the obvious. But for the country to become the perfect ally to uplift other states in their journeys towards a prosperous halal industry ecosystem is commendable.
The Southeast nation has pledged to help Timor-Leste develop its halal industry, as well as collaborate with Bangladesh on expanding the halal products market.
Meanwhile, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations has launched a halal secretariat to boost the halal industry regionally and globally.
Company News
USA
Behalaal app launches in the US
The Behalaal App, a marketplace for halal products and modest fashion, has launched in the US.
The platform connects buyers and sellers who prioritize halal standards, offering essentials and modest wear.
Catering to the growing demand for halal-conscious shopping, the app offers a seamless solution for the faith-driven community in the United States. (Halal Focus)
Indonesia
The Laughing Cow Cheese officially halal-certified by BPJPH
The Laughing Cow Cheese has officially added the halal certification mark from Indonesia's Halal Product Assurance Organizing Agency (BPJPH) to its packaging.
The certification reaffirms Bel Group’s adherence to halal standards and its commitment to providing nutritious and trusted food choices to Indonesian consumers. (PR Newswire)
Malaysia
HDC partners with Pasar Venture to advance halal industry innovation
The Halal Development Corporation Bhd (HDC) has signed an engagement agreement with Pasar Venture Sdn Bhd, a fintech supply chain platform.
The partnership, signed by HDC CEO Hairol Ariffein Sahari and Pasar Venture CEO Ra Wha Hyun, will integrate Pasar.ai into HDC’s Halal Integrated Platform (HIP). (Business Today)
Malaysia
HDC, Hexio forge partnership to bolster halal sector
Halal Development Corp Bhd (HDC) has partnered with Hexio to enhance the halal industry using advanced artificial intelligence technologies, specifically through the HDC Halal Navigator (HaNa).
HDC's CEO, Hairol Ariffein Sahari, stated that HaNa will improve operational efficiencies and equip businesses with necessary tools for halal certification and compliance. (The Star)
Malaysia
PM unveils Malaysia’s first B2B halal marketplace
Macro Tech Ventures Sdn Bhd (Borong) launched Salaam Market, Malaysia's first B2B halal marketplace, in collaboration with Maybank Islamic at the Penang International Halal Expo 2024.
This marketplace aims to strengthen their partnership and contribute to the growth of Malaysia's halal industry, projected to reach $113.2 billion by 2030. (Halal Focus)
Trade Developments
Bangladesh / Malaysia
Bangladesh, Malaysia to work together to expand market for halal products
Bangladesh and Malaysia have pledged to collaborate on expanding the halal products market and developing the halal ecosystem.
Officials discussed the Reverse Linkage Project at a meeting between Bangladesh’s Islamic Foundation and Malaysia’s Serunai delegation, alongside the Islamic Development Bank.
The project will play a vital role in accelerating the development of the halal ecosystem through interconnection between countries. (TBS News)
Malaysia
Asean establishes secretariat to drive industry growth
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) has launched the Halal Secretariat to boost the halal industry regionally and globally.
Announced during the inaugural Asean Halal Roundtable Dialogue, the initiative underscores member states' collective commitment to the sector.
The secretariat will coordinate efforts to support the industry's growth and ensure its long-term success. (Halal Focus)
Bahrain
Municipalities minister highlights expanding local exports, global halal market opportunities
Bahrain’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister issued an edict to bolster the halal industry, aiming to position the kingdom as an international hub.
The edict establishes a regulatory framework, including a national halal mark and rigorous product compliance, to enhance Bahrain’s competitiveness in the growing global halal market. (Bahrain News Agency)
Malaysia
Malaysia ready to help Timor-Leste develop halal industry
Malaysia has pledged to assist Timor-Leste in developing its halal industry to tap into the $3 trillion global market.
During Timor-Leste Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao’s visit, both nations emphasized economic collaboration and encouraged trade and investment opportunities.
They also announced the establishment of a bilateral consultation mechanism to deepen ties and foster shared growth. (FMT)
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia to launch new halal certification initiative
Sheikh Abdullah bin Saleh Kamel, Chairman of the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development, has announced plans to launch a halal certification similar to the 'ISO' certificate.
This initiative, aimed at the 1.6 billion Muslims globally, is a joint effort with the Chambers of Makkah and Madinah.
It aspires to establish Saudi Arabia, especially Makkah and Madinah, as leading centers for halal products, expanding certification to include tourism and cosmetics in addition to food. (Halal Focus)
Regulatory
Kyrgyzstan
Officials test halal product monitoring system
Kyrgyzstan’s ministry of economy and commerce tested an automated system for monitoring halal products, aiming to enhance supervision and certification.
Officials discussed the halal industry’s development and gathered feedback. The system, integrated with the Sever electronic platform, will streamline digital interaction between certification bodies and industry participants. (24 KG)
Investment
Philippines / Saudi Arabia
Firms from Philippines secure $100m in deals at Riyadh Halal Expo
The Saudi International Halal Expo took place in Riyadh from October 28 to 30, showcasing innovations in the global halal market.
The Philippine delegation, led by the DTI, exhibited various products including food, beverages, and tourism-related services.
The event resulted in deals worth $100 million attributed to Filipino exporters and B2B meetings, with seafood and pre-cooked halal meals being the top products. (IQNA)
UPCOMING EVENTS :
- Albania Halal Expo 2025 – Albania – Feb 21-23, 2025
- Halal Expo Canada 2025 – Canada – May 27-28, 2025
