PM Chinh Expands Vietnam Halal Market in UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar

In recent years, the Vietnamese government has actively pursued a strategic expansion into the global Halal market—a decision underscored by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s recent visits to three major Middle Eastern nations: the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. These visits are aimed at strengthening Vietnam’s economic ties with these nations, particularly in the areas of agriculture and food exports, by focusing on Halal-compliant products that meet the specific requirements of Muslim consumers. This ambitious move represents Vietnam’s commitment to establishing a strong Vietnam Halal Market presence, diversifying its export portfolio, and capitalizing on the potential of the $2.7 trillion global Halal market, which is driven by a Muslim population that exceeds two billion worldwide.

For Vietnam, expanding into the Halal market is not only about accessing a lucrative consumer base but also about fostering long-term diplomatic and trade relationships with key Middle Eastern partners. With an estimated global Muslim population set to grow significantly over the coming years, the demand for Halal-certified products—ranging from food to pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and even travel services—is expected to surge. Recognizing this trend, Vietnam’s government and business sectors are taking active steps to position the nation as a reliable supplier of Halal products.

The Vietnam Halal Market

Currently, Vietnam exports a wide range of products to the Middle East, including agricultural goods, seafood, and processed foods. However, to meet the strict requirements of the Halal market, Vietnam is increasingly adapting its production and certification processes to ensure compliance with Islamic dietary laws. According to Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Hoang Trung, who accompanied Prime Minister Chinh on the Middle Eastern tour, Vietnam is committed to producing high-quality Halal-compliant products that adhere to both local and international standards. This strategy involves aligning with global quality benchmarks such as VietGap, GlobalGap, and HACCP, which already overlap with many Halal standards and ensure that Vietnam’s products meet the stringent expectations of Muslim consumers.

The Vietnamese government’s commitment to Halal certification aligns with its broader ambition to create a sustainable, high-quality agricultural sector. By focusing on quality assurance and rigorous compliance, Vietnam is building a foundation for long-term growth in the Halal market. As more Vietnamese products achieve Halal certification, the nation is poised to gain a competitive edge over other Southeast Asian countries, which are also vying for a share of this growing market.

Diplomatic Ties with the Middle East

Prime Minister Chinh’s recent tour of the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar also reflects Vietnam’s determination to deepen diplomatic relations with key Middle Eastern economies. During his visit to Qatar, PM Chinh held discussions with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, where the two leaders explored opportunities for bilateral cooperation in sectors such as agriculture, technology transfer, and economic development. Qatar, with its extensive experience in Halal practices, could offer valuable insights and resources to support Vietnam’s efforts in the Halal market. The Vietnamese government views Qatar’s Halal expertise as a valuable asset that can help Vietnam accelerate its own certification process and create a robust framework for Halal-compliant exports.

Beyond food and agriculture, PM Chinh emphasized the potential for investment collaborations and knowledge exchanges. He highlighted that Vietnam is eager to welcome Qatari investments in infrastructure, agriculture, and aquaculture, with a focus on creating a business-friendly environment for foreign investors. By positioning itself as a welcoming destination for Middle Eastern investments, Vietnam is taking steps to establish itself as a significant player in Southeast Asia’s rapidly growing economy.

Vietnamese Products for Halal Standards

One of the most critical aspects of Vietnam’s entry into the Halal market is adapting its agricultural and manufacturing practices to meet Halal requirements. Halal certification involves more than just adhering to dietary laws; it requires compliance with a set of ethical and quality standards that resonate with Muslim values. For instance, Halal-compliant meat must be processed in a specific manner that ensures humane treatment of animals, while Halal-certified cosmetics must avoid certain ingredients prohibited in Islamic law.

Vietnam has made significant progress in adapting its agricultural practices to meet these requirements. The country’s existing adherence to food safety certifications like VietGap, GlobalGap, and HACCP provides a strong foundation for the transition to Halal standards. These certifications emphasize quality control, traceability, and environmental sustainability—values that align well with Halal principles. As Vietnamese farmers and manufacturers become more familiar with Halal standards, the nation is expected to see a substantial increase in Halal-certified exports, particularly to Middle Eastern markets.

Related: UAE Becomes Vietnam First Comprehensive Partner in the Middle East

Investing in Workforce Development

While the potential for growth in the Halal market is substantial, Vietnam faces certain challenges in fully realizing this potential. One of the main obstacles is the need for greater awareness and understanding of Halal standards among Vietnamese producers and consumers. According to Zafer Gedikli, President of the World Halal Council, Vietnam should invest in training programs and awareness campaigns to educate its workforce about Halal requirements. This will ensure that Vietnamese products are not only Halal-compliant but also meet the highest standards of quality and safety expected by Muslim consumers.

To address this challenge, the Vietnamese government is exploring partnerships with international Halal certification bodies. By collaborating with experienced organizations, Vietnam can streamline its certification process and provide its workforce with the necessary training and resources to meet Halal standards. Additionally, educational initiatives that target local producers can help ensure that Halal compliance becomes an integral part of Vietnam’s food and agricultural industries.

Technology Transfer

During his Middle Eastern visits, Prime Minister Chinh emphasized the importance of technology transfer and innovation in enhancing Vietnam’s agricultural capabilities. By adopting advanced agricultural practices, Vietnam aims to increase its productivity and meet the growing demand for high-quality, Halal-compliant products. Collaboration with Middle Eastern countries in areas such as smart agriculture, water conservation, and precision farming could greatly enhance Vietnam’s capacity to produce Halal-certified goods that meet the needs of the Middle Eastern market.

The focus on technology is part of Vietnam’s broader strategy to become a competitive player in Southeast Asia. By investing in modern agricultural techniques and infrastructure, Vietnam is positioning itself to produce a steady supply of Halal-certified products that appeal to Muslim consumers worldwide. This approach also aligns with global efforts to promote sustainable farming practices, which are increasingly important to Muslim consumers who prioritize ethical sourcing.

Vietnam’s Entry into Halal Tourism

Vietnam’s interest in the Halal market extends beyond food and agriculture. With the rise of Muslim-friendly travel, the country is exploring opportunities in Halal tourism and hospitality. Middle Eastern investors have shown interest in developing Halal-certified hotels, restaurants, and recreational facilities in Vietnam, which could attract a growing number of Muslim tourists. By catering to the unique needs of Muslim travelers, Vietnam can strengthen its appeal as a culturally inclusive destination.

Halal tourism is not only about providing Halal food but also about creating an environment where Muslim travelers feel comfortable and respected. This includes providing prayer facilities, gender-segregated spaces, and accommodations that meet Islamic guidelines. Vietnam’s tourism industry has started to recognize these needs and is working to develop infrastructure that caters to Muslim tourists. As Vietnam strengthens its Halal certification capabilities, it could see a surge in tourism revenue from Muslim-majority countries, particularly those in the Middle East.

The Growth of the Global Halal Market

The global Halal market’s rapid growth presents a unique opportunity for Vietnam to establish itself as a leading supplier of Halal products. With a current estimated value of $2.7 trillion, the Halal market is expected to grow as the global Muslim population expands and consumer demand for Halal-certified products increases. This growth is not limited to food; Halal standards are now being applied to a range of products, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and fashion.

Vietnamese companies in sectors such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and even lifestyle products are beginning to see the value of obtaining Halal certification. By tapping into this market, Vietnam can broaden its export portfolio and cater to a diverse range of consumer needs. The Vietnamese government’s support for Halal certification in these industries reflects its strategic approach to securing a foothold in the global Halal market.

Advantage through Quality Assurance

Vietnam’s commitment to quality assurance and Halal compliance provides it with a distinct advantage in the Halal market. By ensuring that its products meet both global quality standards and Halal requirements, Vietnam is establishing itself as a trustworthy supplier in the eyes of Muslim consumers. This reputation is essential for long-term success, as Muslim consumers place a high value on quality, safety, and ethical sourcing.

Vietnam’s emphasis on quality is also likely to attract more foreign investments. Middle Eastern investors, in particular, are increasingly looking for suppliers who can guarantee Halal compliance while meeting international quality standards. By positioning itself as a reliable partner, Vietnam can create lasting economic partnerships with Middle Eastern nations, which will benefit both regions.

Vietnam’s Path

Vietnam’s entry into the Halal market marks a significant step toward becoming a global Halal hub. The government’s focus on Halal certification, workforce training, and technological innovation underscores its commitment to building a robust Halal economy. By aligning its exports with Halal standards, Vietnam is not only enhancing its export profile but also fostering mutual growth with its Middle Eastern partners.

The Vietnamese government’s strategic initiatives, such as sending experts to assist in meeting food security demands in the Middle East, reflect a long-term vision for economic cooperation. By sharing knowledge and resources, Vietnam and its Middle Eastern partners can create a sustainable trade ecosystem that benefits both parties. As Vietnam continues to strengthen its Halal certification infrastructure, the nation is expected to attract even more foreign investments and solidify its position as a leader in the Halal market.

Vietnam in the Halal Market

Vietnam’s expansion into the Halal market is a testament to its economic ambition and forward-thinking approach. By focusing on Halal standards, Vietnam is not only meeting the needs of Muslim consumers but also enhancing its appeal as a trade partner for Middle Eastern nations. The government’s emphasis on food security, technology transfer, and sustainable practices aligns with the priorities of Muslim-majority countries, making Vietnam an attractive destination for investment and collaboration.

As Vietnam continues to build its Halal certification framework and strengthen its diplomatic ties with the Middle East, the nation is well-positioned to capitalize on the opportunities within the global Halal market. With a growing number of Vietnamese products achieving Halal certification, the country is expected to see an increase in export revenue and a deeper integration into the global Halal ecosystem.

Vietnam’s journey into the Halal market is just beginning, but the potential for growth is immense. As more Vietnamese businesses adopt Halal standards, the nation is likely to emerge as a key player in the Halal economy, contributing to the global supply of Halal-certified goods and services. By building a strong foundation in quality, compliance, and innovation, Vietnam is setting the stage for a prosperous future in the global Halal market, paving the way for lasting partnerships and mutual growth with the Middle East and beyond.