Thailand, a predominantly Buddhist country, is one of the largest exporters of halal food in the world. In 2021, Thailand ranked 15th amongst the world's leading halal food exporters. With its halal food exports worth almost US$6 billion in 2021/2022, the country is targeting a three percent increase in 2023.
One of the key challenges facing Thailand’s halal industry is consumer confidence in its products. The Central Islamic Council of Thailand (CICOT), with the support of the Halal Standard Institute of Thailand (HSIT), has been promoting the use of international halal standards and certification procedures in order to boost consumer confidence.
"Our approach to maintaining the standards of Thai halal products is based on the principles of Religious confirmation and scientific support," said HSIT Director Prof. Dr. Pakorn Priyakorn.
The CICOT has worked with halal certification bodies to get international accreditation for Thailand’s halal certificate. Additionally, the Halal Science Center of Chulalongkorn University has helped to ensure top halal quality by using science-based methods and advanced technologies to detect haram ingredients in its inspection and certification processes.
As of April 2023, more than 160,000 products, 33,000 brands, and 14,000 companies have received halal certification in Thailand.
"Our halal certification process is globally recognised. We have the highest number of halal-certified products in the world," said Priyakorn.
The global halal market is currently worth US$2 trillion and is expected to reach US$3 trillion by 2026. This rapid growth is driven by an increase in both the global Muslim population and a heightened awareness and appreciation of halal products among non-Muslim consumers.
Aside from food, Thailand’s halal industry covers a wide range of other products and services, including cosmetics, fashion and tourism. Halal tourism is a rapidly growing market, as Muslim consumers are looking for travel experiences that cater to their religious and dietary needs. Thailand was included in the top five most popular travel destinations for non-Muslim countries in the 2022 Global Muslim Travel Index.
In an effort to reinforce its reputation within the halal market, Thailand is dedicating a section to halal products in its showroom at the upcoming THAIFEX industry event later this month. The event will showcase trending and innovative halal products and services.
