Advancing Global Trust on World Halal Standards Day

As the world marks another annual celebration of World Halal Standards Day on May 17th, the significance of this day resonates deeply within the global halal industry. This special date commemorates the pivotal moment in 2011 when the initial versions of the OIC/SMIIC halal standards—OIC SMIIC 1, OIC/SMIIC 2, and OIC/SMIIC 3—were adopted during the first Technical Committee meeting of the Standards and Metrology Institute for Islamic Countries (SMIIC) in Yaoundé, Cameroon.

This year’s theme, “Pioneering Excellence: Advancing the Halal Industry with OIC/SMIIC Standards,” highlights the transformative journey of the halal sector, which has expanded beyond its traditional focus on food. The industry now encompasses a broad spectrum of products and services integral to Muslim consumers, driven by rapid industrialization and globalization. These changes have reshaped manufacturing processes and facilitated the worldwide movement of goods and people, making standardization more crucial than ever.

The establishment of SMIIC in 2010 marked a significant stride towards integrating halal practices with global standards. This move aimed to instill confidence among consumers and streamline trade across borders by creating a transparent and reliable system for halal certification.

“World Halal Standards Day is an opportunity for all SMIIC members to promote the OIC/SMIIC Halal Standards, which are crucial in addressing the needs of key stakeholders and advancing the global halal industry,” said a spokesperson for SMIIC. By standardizing halal practices, SMIIC not only enhances the credibility of halal products and services but also fosters innovation and growth within the industry.

As we observe World Halal Standards Day, it is clear that SMIIC’s ongoing efforts to refine and promote these standards are vital for the sustainable development of the halal economy worldwide. The contributions of stakeholders from member states are instrumental in this endeavor, ensuring that the halal industry continues to thrive and meet the dynamic needs of the global market.