AFSA Chairman Unveils Four-Tier Halal Certification

As the halal market grows rapidly around the world, countries are increasingly looking to strengthen their halal certification frameworks to meet rising consumer demand. Azerbaijan’s new initiative not only positions the country to benefit from this global trend but also ensures that its food businesses can compete effectively in international markets.

AFSA Chairman: Certification Process for Businesses

In his speech at the forum’s opening ceremony, Goshgar Tahmazli highlighted the importance of making halal certification more accessible for Azerbaijani businesses. He explained that innovative solutions are being implemented to simplify the application process, allowing businesses to apply for certification more easily and transparently. This is especially crucial as businesses, both large and small, look to expand into the halal market, which continues to see exponential growth worldwide.

To oversee this new system, committees on Certification, Impartiality, and Complaints have already been formed. These committees consist of experts from the Azerbaijan Institute of Food Safety, ensuring that the certification process is fair and impartial. This will help maintain a high standard of quality while ensuring that all certified products comply with Islamic law.

One of the key elements of the new halal certification process is its transparency. Businesses will be able to track the progress of their certification applications, which reduces uncertainty and speeds up the approval process. This is expected to encourage more businesses to apply for certification, boosting Azerbaijan’s role in the global halal market.

Tahmazli also shared details about the first step taken to implement the new system. An audit was conducted at one of the facilities involved in halal certification, where inspectors assessed compliance with halal slaughtering methods, food safety practices, and other relevant standards. This audit ensures that certified businesses are meeting the necessary requirements for halal certification, which in turn, builds consumer trust both domestically and internationally.

The Global Halal Industry

The halal industry, while often associated with food, encompasses much more than just what we eat. Ahmad Kavesa Sengendo, assistant to the Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) for economic issues, highlighted this broader scope during his address at the forum. “The halal industry is not just about food,” Sengendo explained. “It covers various aspects of life, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, finance, and even tourism.” His comments emphasized the growing importance of halal standards across multiple sectors, not just food production.

This comprehensive approach to halal certification is becoming increasingly important as global demand for halal products and services rises. Sengendo pointed out that the halal business sector has expanded by 47% over the past six years. This significant growth reflects not only the rising Muslim population worldwide but also a growing interest among non-Muslims in halal products due to their high standards of quality and ethical production processes.

Sengendo’s remarks highlight the importance of looking beyond just food when considering the impact of the halal industry. With halal cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and even travel services on the rise, countries that invest in well-rounded halal certification systems are likely to see substantial economic benefits.

Azerbaijan’s Role

For Azerbaijan, the introduction of a robust and organized halal certification process is a game-changer. The global halal food market alone is projected to reach $2.9 trillion by 2027, according to industry reports. By adopting international halal standards, Azerbaijan can position itself as a key player in this lucrative market. The new certification process will make it easier for Azerbaijani businesses to meet the growing demand for halal products, both domestically and abroad.

In recent years, the halal market has expanded far beyond the Middle East and Southeast Asia. With Muslim populations growing in Europe, Africa, and North America, there is a rising demand for halal-certified products in non-Muslim-majority countries. Azerbaijan, with its strategic location and strong ties to both the East and the West, is well-positioned to tap into these emerging markets.

In addition to food production, halal tourism is another area where Azerbaijan can benefit from this new certification system. The global halal tourism industry is expected to grow at a rapid pace, particularly as more Muslim travelers seek destinations that cater to their religious needs. With its rich history, diverse culture, and beautiful landscapes, Azerbaijan has the potential to become a top destination for Muslim tourists, especially if it can offer a certified halal infrastructure.

Halal Certification for Economic Growth

The halal industry is not just about catering to the dietary needs of Muslim consumers—it is a major driver of economic growth. By developing a well-structured and comprehensive halal certification system, Azerbaijan is positioning itself to benefit from the expanding global halal market. The halal sector offers significant business opportunities for local companies looking to export their products, as well as for international companies seeking to enter the Azerbaijani market.

One of the key benefits of halal certification is that it opens up access to a much larger consumer base. As the global Muslim population is set to reach 2.2 billion by 2030, the demand for halal products and services will continue to rise. Countries that invest in halal certification systems today are likely to see long-term economic benefits as they become key players in this growing market.

The AFSA chairman’s announcement at the AZHAB Forum is a timely response to this global trend. By making halal certification more accessible and transparent, Azerbaijan is not only supporting its local businesses but also enhancing its competitiveness on the international stage. This initiative is expected to attract more foreign investment and boost the country’s exports in the coming years.

What Lies Ahead?

As Azerbaijan rolls out its new four-category halal certification system, businesses across the country are expected to benefit from the streamlined process. With the use of modern technology and a more transparent application system, companies will find it easier to comply with halal standards and gain access to both local and international markets.

Industry experts suggest that the future of halal certification lies in taking a holistic approach. Beyond food, there is growing interest in halal-certified cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, fashion, and even real estate. Countries like Azerbaijan, which invest in developing a comprehensive halal certification framework, are likely to see significant economic growth in these sectors.

In conclusion, the AFSA chairman’s announcement of the four-category halal certification process marks a pivotal moment for Azerbaijan. Not only does this initiative support local businesses by giving them easier access to the global halal market, but it also enhances Azerbaijan’s reputation as a halal-friendly destination for travelers and investors alike. As the halal industry continues to grow across multiple sectors, Azerbaijan’s forward-thinking approach will undoubtedly lead to substantial economic benefits for the country in the years to come.