JAKARTA – The Department of Science and Technology-Industrial Technology Development Institute (DOST-ITDI) has successfully developed a range of halal-compliant cosmetics and personal care products, positioning the Philippines to capture a larger share of the rapidly expanding global halal market.

The innovative products were showcased at a Philippine Information Agency press conference, highlighting the government’s commitment to implementing Republic Act 10817, also known as the Philippine Halal Export Development and Promotion Act of 2016.

Tapping into a Booming Market

“Advancing the halal industry in the Philippines will not only improve the lives of Muslim Filipinos and attract more tourists, but could also stimulate significant economic growth,” stated Rachel V. Parcon, Chief Science Research Specialist of DOST-ITDI’s Standards and Testing Division.

The global halal cosmetics sector presents a lucrative opportunity. Valued at $47 billion in 2024, the market is forecast to reach $115 billion by 2032, representing a compound annual growth rate of 11.67%. The Asia Pacific region currently dominates with a 64.07% market share.

In the Philippines, the cosmetics industry is projected to reach $852 million in 2025, with a 3.5% compound annual growth rate expected through 2030. The local skincare segment alone is anticipated to expand from P51.8 billion in 2021 to P74.8 billion by 2026.

Comprehensive Product Portfolio

DOST-ITDI has created two distinct product collections:

First Batch – Everyday Essentials:

• Moisturizing lipstick
• Moisturizing lip balm
• Plant extract-enriched skin-lightening soap
• Antibacterial toothpaste
• Hair-growth promoting shampoo

Three items from this collection have already been commercialized under the brand name Shahin, complete with FDA registration, halal certification, and market availability.

Second Batch – Premium Spa Collection: Designed for spa facilities, hotels, beauty salons, and souvenir shops, this line includes:

• Essential oils extracted from indigenous ingredients (lemongrass, ylang-ylang, and calamansi peels)
• Relaxing massage oil
• Moisturizing body cream
• Anti-aging serum featuring natural pineapple peel exfoliant
• Gel cleanser

Rigorous Quality Standards

All products underwent comprehensive testing for heavy metals content and microbial contamination, meeting maximum allowable limits established by ASEAN guidelines and international standards, according to Parcon.

Several formulations also passed critical tests for alcohol content, porcine DNA, and genetically modified organisms—essential requirements for exporting to Middle Eastern markets.

The spa skincare line has been evaluated for hypoallergenicity and confirmed safe and non-irritating across all skin types.

Certified Production Excellence

DOST-ITDI’s manufacturing facility for halal cosmetics holds certification from a Malaysian certifying organization and operates under a halal assurance management system.

While DOST develops the products, the Islamic Da’wah Council of the Philippines serves as the official certifying body, conducting facility inspections to ensure compliance with Sharia principles.

Supporting Local Entrepreneurs

The department offers financial assistance through startup programs to help small and medium enterprises enhance their manufacturing facilities and establish dedicated production lines for halal-compliant products.

Philippine Identity in Every Product

A distinctive feature of these cosmetics is their incorporation of Filipino raw materials, including ylang-ylang, lemongrass, and calamansi. This strategy gives the products a uniquely Philippine character, making them stand out in the international marketplace.

The technologies are available for adoption at DOST-ITDI. Interested businesses can obtain more information through the agency’s website at https://itdi.dost.gov.ph/ or via Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ITDIDOSTUpdates.

Original Article:

Philippines Information agency. (2025, October 23). DOST develops halal-compliant cosmetics, personal care products. Retrieved from https://pia.gov.ph/news/dost-develops-halal-compliant-cosmetics-personal-care-products/