Thailand launches halal corridor to shore up local economy
The government of Thailand has rolled out a halal economic corridor (HEC) in the southern border provinces of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat and Satun, as well as districts of Songkhla.
The initiative aims to enhance the local economy, improve the livelihoods of residents, and establish Thailand as a global hub for Sharia-compliant halal goods, the National News Bureau of Thailand reported.
Rear Adm Somkiat Ponprayoon, Secretary-General of the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Center, noted that 'the region’s historical trade connections with the Arab World and its significant Muslim population make it an ideal candidate for the halal corridor'. The initiative seeks to tap into the vast Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) market, and promote economic growth.
Thailand has already engaged in discussions with halal investors from the ASEAN region and the Middle East, particularly Saudi Arabia, who have expressed an interest in investing in the HEC, Ponprayoon added.
Government introduces Halal Economic Corridor in southern border provinces to boost local economy.
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Among the main objectives of the corridor is to promote the production and export of halal meat, including beef, chicken and goat, to Islamic countries.
To this end, the administrative centre is collaborating with partners such as the Livestock Department, National Farmer Councils and cow breeding associations, to encourage over 10,000 farmers across the five provinces to participate in the halal meat production campaign, the statement added.
The HEC also aims to attract Muslim-friendly tourism and wellness activities, with local hospitals, hotels and spas being exhorted to adopt halal practices catering to Muslim tourists.
