(Photo: INQ)

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is setting its sights on a remarkable goal: to nearly double the Philippines’ halal trade revenues to approximately P16 billion by 2025. This ambitious target follows the success of the “Halal-Friendly Philippines” campaign launched in 2024, which has significantly raised the profile of Filipino halal products on the global stage.

In a recent interview on the Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon program, Aleem Siddiqui Guiapal, DTI Program Manager for Industry Development and Investments Promotions Group, shared insights into the strategy behind this target. He noted that the Philippines generated an impressive P7.9 billion in halal trade revenues last year through participation in various international expositions.

“To achieve our 2025 goal, we plan to expand our presence in key markets such as the United States, South Korea, Japan, and Turkey, particularly Istanbul. By tapping into these countries, we anticipate doubling our trade revenues and sales compared to 2024,” Guiapal explained.

The DTI’s initiatives to promote the “Halal-Friendly Philippines” brand have played a crucial role in enhancing the visibility of Filipino halal products worldwide. Last year marked a significant milestone for the Philippines, as it made its debut at prestigious events like the Saudi International Halal Expo and the Abu Dhabi Food Expo, where it generated substantial trade sales of P104.5 million in Saudi Arabia alone.

Guiapal emphasized that the DTI’s strategy to bolster the local halal industry hinges on ensuring that all products meet Sharia-compliant standards. This involves strict adherence to halal certification requirements, which dictate that food items, including chicken and meat, must be slaughtered according to Islamic law. Additionally, products must be free from prohibited ingredients, such as pork, and should cater to the preferences of Muslim consumers while also appealing to non-Muslims who are increasingly seeking healthier and ethically produced options.

The growing interest among Filipino manufacturers in obtaining halal certification is a promising trend, as it opens doors to lucrative markets in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Halal, an Arabic term meaning lawful or permissible, encompasses actions, behaviors, or items that align with Islamic principles.

As the DTI embarks on this ambitious journey, the focus on halal trade not only aims to boost the economy but also positions the Philippines as a key player in the global halal market. With a commitment to quality and compliance, the country is poised to meet the rising demand for halal products, ensuring that it remains competitive in this thriving sector.

Original Article:

Camus, M. A. (2024, April 3). DTI eyes halal sales of nearly P16B in 2025. Inquirer.net. https://business.inquirer.net/508637/dti-eyes-halal-sales-of-nearly-php16-b-in-2025/amp