The World Trade Center Metro Manila (WTCMM), the Philippines’ premier venue for international trade shows and events, addressed the complexities of the global and domestic Halal ecosystem during its latest ‘Business Broadcast’ networking forum. Stakeholders from the government, private sector, and international community discussed Halal standardization, certification, supply chain integrity, and market access.
Aleem Siddiqui M. Guiapal, Program Manager for Halal Industry Development at the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), highlighted the growing demand for Halal products in domestic and export markets. Department of Tourism (DOT) Chief of Staff for Halal Tourism and Muslim Concerns Isabelle Biscocho reported the increasing tourist arrivals from Islamic countries.
Ambassador of Malaysia to the Philippines, H.E. Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, highlighted the immense growth potential in the Global Islamic Economy, particularly in the Halal sector, for Philippine companies to tap into, citing Malaysia’s Halal exports, which grew by 63.8% to $13.51 billion in 2022.
Ruby Bañares-Victorino, Chairwoman of the Halal Committee of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce & Industry-Makati, discussed strategies for a thriving Halal economy, emphasizing the importance of partnerships between businesses, governments, and communities. Halal International Chamber of Commerce and Industries in the Philippines (HICCIP) President and CEO Ustadz Alexander M. Sultan summarized the complex Halal regulatory and compliance landscape, underscoring the need to raise Halal awareness through training, seminars, and promotion.
Finally, Universal Islamic Center President Marilou W. Ampuan Al Hajj underscored the urgent need for more awareness about the real meaning of Halal beyond food and the inconsistent standards across countries and certifiers, particularly in innovating the Halal ecosystem.
“As we explore the growing opportunities in the Halal industry, we see that it plays a pivotal role not only in meeting the needs of millions of consumers globally but also in promoting ethical business practices, sustainability, and inclusivity,” said WTCMM Chairman and CEO Pamela D. Pascual.
“As a member of the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA), our mission at the WTCMM has always been to connect businesses to the global marketplace, and Halal trade is a key driver in unlocking new avenues for investment and economic development,” added Ms. Pascual.