The Taiwan Halal Center’s Prominent Presence at the 2023 MIHAS

In an era where cultural diversity and globalization are more prominent than ever, the demand for halal products is experiencing unprecedented growth. The term “halal” refers to food and products permissible under Islamic law and has become synonymous with quality, trust, and ethical standards worldwide. Recognizing this, the Taiwan Halal Center, in collaboration with eight leading Taiwanese companies, significantly impacted the 2023 Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS). Held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur, this event has become a crucial platform for promoting Taiwanese halal products globally, solidifying Taiwan’s presence in the burgeoning halal market.

The Taiwan Halal Center

The Taiwan Halal Center operates under the auspices of the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) and has been instrumental in introducing Taiwanese products to the global Muslim market. Since its inception in 2017, the center has aligned itself with Taiwan’s government policies aimed at making the country more Muslim-friendly. To date, over 1,000 Taiwanese companies have successfully obtained halal certification, a crucial milestone in ensuring that their products meet the rigorous standards required by Islamic dietary laws.

Eva Peng, Director of the Taiwan Trade Center in Kuala Lumpur, has been at the forefront of driving this initiative. Her leadership and strategic vision have played a key role in the proactive participation of Taiwanese companies in international trade shows and exhibitions. Peng has emphasized that the ambition of Taiwanese companies extends beyond the Malaysian market to a broader global audience, showcasing Taiwan’s commitment to becoming a major player in the global halal industry. This strategic approach is part of a larger effort to position Taiwan as a central hub for halal products, enhancing its competitiveness in the global market.

The Expanding Global Halal Market

The global halal market presents vast opportunities, particularly for Taiwan’s food and cosmetics industries. As the world’s Muslim population continues to grow—expected to reach nearly 2.2 billion by 2030—the demand for halal-certified products is skyrocketing. According to the State of the Global Islamic Economy Report 2022, the halal food and beverage market alone is projected to reach a value of $1.93 trillion by 2027. This figure underscores the immense potential for Taiwanese businesses to expand their footprint in this sector, particularly as the demand for halal-certified products continues to rise across various markets.

At MIHAS 2023, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim delivered a keynote address highlighting the growth potential of the global halal market. He projected that the global halal economy could reach an astonishing US$2.4 trillion by 2024, covering sectors from food and beverages to pharmaceuticals and personal care products. This growth is driven by a combination of factors, including increasing awareness of halal standards, a growing Muslim middle class, and rising demand for ethically produced goods. These dynamics present a golden opportunity for Taiwanese businesses, particularly those in the food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries, to leverage their halal certifications and tap into this expanding market.

The Impact of Taiwan Halal Center

The Taiwan Halal Center is central to Taiwan’s efforts to penetrate the halal market. The center’s mission is to ensure that Taiwanese products not only meet the rigorous standards of halal certification but also gain a competitive advantage in the global Muslim market. Through a combination of thorough certification processes and robust support services, the center facilitates the export of a wide range of Taiwanese products, including food items, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.

The importance of halal certification cannot be overstated, particularly in markets where adherence to Islamic dietary laws is not just a preference but a requirement. The Taiwan Halal Center plays a pivotal role in this process by providing comprehensive certification services, which include everything from ensuring the proper sourcing of ingredients to verifying that production processes meet halal standards. This meticulous approach has earned Taiwanese products a reputation for quality and reliability in the global market, making them highly sought after by consumers and retailers alike.

Taiwanese Companies at MIHAS 2023

The participation of Taiwanese companies at MIHAS 2023 was a testament to their dedication to quality and halal compliance. These companies took full advantage of the international platform provided by MIHAS to connect with distributors, retailers, and consumers in Malaysia and beyond. Their presence at such events is not just about promoting products but also about building long-lasting relationships in the global halal market. By participating in MIHAS and other international trade shows, Taiwanese companies can showcase their products to a global audience, highlighting their commitment to meeting the needs of Muslim consumers worldwide.

One of the standout features of Taiwanese participation at MIHAS was the diversity of products on display. From traditional food items to innovative beauty products, Taiwanese companies demonstrated that they are not only capable of meeting the strict requirements of halal certification but also of delivering high-quality products that appeal to a broad range of consumers. This diversity is a key factor in Taiwan’s success in the global halal market, as it allows the country to cater to a wide variety of tastes and preferences.

The Future of Taiwan’s Halal Market

The global halal market is expanding rapidly, and Taiwanese entrepreneurs are keen to capitalize on this growth. The scope of halal products has extended beyond food, now encompassing beauty and personal care items, pharmaceuticals, and even fashion. Halal-certified cosmetics, for example, are increasingly gaining traction in markets around the world, driven by a growing demand for products that are not only ethical but also safe and environmentally friendly.

This diversification represents a significant opportunity for Taiwanese businesses to innovate and meet the evolving needs of Muslim consumers worldwide. By expanding their product offerings and obtaining halal certification for a broader range of goods, Taiwanese companies can position themselves as leaders in the global halal market. This approach is not only good for business but also aligns with Taiwan’s broader goals of fostering cultural understanding and promoting ethical practices.

MIHAS 2023

MIHAS 2023 brought together over 1,000 companies from 44 countries, providing an unparalleled networking platform. Taiwanese businesses had the opportunity to engage with industry peers, explore new markets, and establish partnerships. With an expected attendance of over 35,000 buyers, MIHAS has solidified its role as a key driver of the global halal trade. For Taiwanese companies, participation in MIHAS is more than just a chance to showcase their products; it is an opportunity to learn from other industry leaders, identify emerging trends, and adapt their strategies to meet the changing needs of the global market.

One of the key takeaways from MIHAS 2023 was the importance of innovation in the halal market. As consumers become more discerning and demand for halal products grows, companies that can offer unique, high-quality products will be best positioned to succeed. Taiwanese companies, with their strong emphasis on quality and compliance, are well-placed to take advantage of these trends. By continuing to innovate and adapt to the needs of the global market, they can ensure that Taiwan remains at the forefront of the halal industry.

Taiwan’s Path Forward in the Halal Market

The collaboration between the Taiwan Halal Center and eight Taiwanese companies at MIHAS 2023 marks a significant step in Taiwan’s journey to establish itself as a leader in the global halal market. With a clear focus on quality, compliance, and strategic growth, Taiwanese enterprises are well-positioned to make a lasting impact on the halal industry. As the world continues to recognize the potential of the halal market, Taiwan is set to contribute significantly to its expansion, fostering both cultural understanding and economic opportunities on a global scale.

Moving forward, the Taiwan Halal Center will continue to play a critical role in supporting Taiwanese businesses as they navigate the complexities of the global halal market. By providing the necessary resources and expertise, the center is helping to ensure that Taiwanese products meet the highest standards of quality and compliance, positioning them for success in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

In conclusion, the Taiwan Halal Center’s efforts at MIHAS 2023 represent more than just a showcase of Taiwanese products; they are a testament to Taiwan’s commitment to becoming a global leader in the halal market. By staying committed to these goals, the Taiwan Halal Center and its partners are paving the way for Taiwan to become a key player in the thriving halal economy. With continued innovation, strategic partnerships, and a focus on quality, Taiwan is well on its way to leaving an enduring imprint on the global halal industry.