Greece should establish a comprehensive halal strategy to maximize its agricultural and food sector’s export opportunities to Islamic nations, according to Deputy Rural Development and Food Minister Christos Kellas.

Speaking to the National Association of Agricultural Cooperatives, Kellas emphasized that Greece manufactures premium food products characterized by distinctive local heritage and global marketability—attributes that could receive significant boost through halal certification and provide access to substantial markets including Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates, and Turkey.

New International Partnership Launch

The ministry announced that the gathering also introduced a fresh international collaboration between Mirtec Cyprus—an affiliate of HellasCert, the Hellenic Association of Accredited Certification and Inspection Bodies—and the Halal Products Development Company, which operates under Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. This partnership is designed to establish the foundation for Greece’s national halal strategy.

Market Potential and Growth

Event participants received data showing that the worldwide halal products industry surpasses $2.5 trillion yearly, experiencing annual growth exceeding 6%. The certification process extends beyond fulfilling religious requirements, increasingly serving as a gateway to lucrative markets with stringent quality and safety standards.

Strategic Opportunities

The initiative represents Greece’s recognition of the significant commercial potential in Muslim-majority markets, where halal certification can serve as both a religious compliance measure and a mark of premium quality assurance for international consumers.

Original Article:

Ekathimerini. (2025, July 17). Greece urged to develop national halal strategy to boost exports to Muslim markets. Ekathimerini. https://www.ekathimerini.com/economy/1275292/greece-urged-to-develop-national-halal-strategy-to-boost-exports-to-muslim-markets/