Thailand’s halal industry has gained global recognition in recent years, positioning the country for significant growth in halal exports. Thailand, a predominantly Buddhist nation, ranks as a top global exporter of halal food, securing the 15th position in 2021. The country’s halal food exports reached nearly US$6 billion in 2021/2022, targeting a 3% growth in 2023. Top exports include rice, sugar, canned seafood, processed fruits, vegetables, non-alcoholic beverages, and organic and functional foods.
The Central Islamic Council of Thailand (CICOT) collaborates with the Halal Standard Institute of Thailand (HSIT) to ensure consumer confidence in Thai halal products by promoting international halal standards and certification procedures. “Religious confirmation and scientific support” are the guiding principles for maintaining Thai halal product standards, according to HSIT Director Prof. Dr. Pakorn Priyakorn.
Thailand’s halal certification is internationally recognized, with over 160,000 products, 33,000 brands, and 14,000 companies receiving certification by April 2023. The global halal market, worth over US$2 trillion, is projected to reach US$3 trillion by 2026 due to an increasing Muslim population and rising awareness of halal products among non-Muslim consumers.
Thailand’s halal industry spans the food, cosmetics, fashion, pharmaceuticals, and tourism sectors. With strong support systems and a recognized reputation for certified-halal quality products, Thailand’s halal industry is set for a prosperous future.
Thailand’s Halal Tourism and Export Industry Leadership
The Thai government and various organizations have worked diligently to develop the country’s halal industry. They have created a robust support system, including comprehensive certification processes, to ensure the quality and integrity of Thai halal products. Thailand’s dedication to excellent halal certification has globally recognized its halal products and instilled consumer confidence.
While the halal food sector is a significant component of Thailand’s halal industry, the country has also expanded its offerings to include cosmetics, fashion, pharmaceuticals, and tourism. These additional sectors present lucrative opportunities for growth, as the demand for halal-compliant products and services continues to increase among both Muslim and non-Muslim consumers.
Halal tourism, in particular, is a rapidly growing market. Thailand has recognized the potential in catering to Muslim travelers seeking destinations and experiences that align with their religious and cultural needs. By providing halal-friendly accommodations, restaurants, and attractions, Thailand has emerged as a preferred destination for Muslim tourists. The 2022 Global Muslim Travel Index ranked the country among the top five most popular travel destinations for non-Muslim countries as a result.
The collaboration between the public and private sectors has also contributed to Thailand’s success in the halal industry. Major Thai food-processing conglomerates, such as CP Group and Betagro, have made significant investments in halal food production processes and overseas marketing. These strategic investments enable Thai companies to tap into the growing halal market and attract Islamic consumers.
Thailand’s Showcase of Innovative Halal Products at THAIFEX 2023
In an effort to further strengthen its position as a hub for halal manufacturing, Thailand will showcase its innovative halal products and services at THAIFEX, one of Asia’s largest food and beverage industry events, in May 2023. By dedicating a special halal market section in its showroom, Thailand aims to reinforce its commitment to the halal industry and attract even more international buyers and investors.
With a solid foundation in place and an established reputation for certified-halal quality products, Thailand’s halal industry appears poised for continued growth and success. The country’s dedication to meeting the diverse needs of the global Muslim population, along with its ability to adapt and innovate, places Thailand in a strong position to benefit from the rapidly expanding halal market.
This article discusses Thailand’s halal industry, which has gained global recognition, positioning the country for significant growth in halal exports. Thailand, with its strategic location and established trade relations, has become a major player in the global halal market.
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