6-1-2024 (BANGKOK) The Ministry of Industry in Thailand is actively pursuing a strategic initiative to position the nation as a leading halal hub within the Asean region. Industry Minister Pimphattra Wichaikul is set to engage in discussions with officials in Saudi Arabia, a key player in the global halal market.
Scheduled for the coming week, Minister Pimphattra will meet with representatives from the Saudi Standards, Metrology, and Quality Organization (SASO), responsible for overseeing matters related to standardization.
Aditad Vasinonta, Director-General of the Department of Primary Industries and Mines, emphasized the objective of enhancing consumer confidence in halal products, both within Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle East region.
Minister Pimphattra had previously announced the ministry’s plans to establish a dedicated Halal Department to foster the growth of the industry, particularly in the Deep South region.
The government’s broader vision includes elevating the livelihoods of the local populace through the creation of a Halal Economic Corridor. Encompassing the southern border provinces of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Satun, along with four districts in Songkhla—Na Thawi, Saba Yoi, Chana, and Thepa—this corridor aims to be a catalyst for economic development.
Minister Pimphattra envisions that the Halal Department will play a pivotal role in diversifying halal products and services. This encompasses the development of new food options for the Muslim community, alongside ventures into halal fashion and tourism.
Projections from the Ministry indicate that halal-related businesses could contribute to a 1.2% increase in the industrial sector’s GDP within the next three years.
Industry officials anticipate a significant uptick in the global market value of halal businesses, reaching an estimated US$2.32 trillion in the current year, up from $2.1 trillion in 2021.
In 2022, Thailand’s exports of halal food amounted to 213 billion baht, securing a 2.7% share in the global market. The majority, 78%, consisted of natural halal food, with the remainder requiring halal certification.
Minister Pimphattra’s meeting with SASO officials is part of her broader engagement in Riyadh, where she will participate in the “Future Minerals Forum” from January 9-11. The forum underscores the critical role of minerals in advancing clean energy development.
