Exporters asked to seek Halal certification

MANILA, Philippines - More Filipino exporters have been called to seek Halal certification for their products and services in a bid to tap the huge global Halal market and further expand their business overseas.  

Har Man Ahmad, Trade Commissioner of Malaysia External Trade Development Corp. (MATRADE), said that apart from food and beverage (F&B), non-food products and services like logistics, financial, insurance and health care-related goods should be Halal certified.

“Halal industry is very much big... For you (the Philippines) to benefit the Middle East market which actually has a very huge potential, Halal certification is one of the compulsory things that you have to undertake,” he said.

Ahmad said exporters need to seek such certification if they want to further expand their markets abroad.

He believed that the Philippines has a competitive advantage in food ingredients, cosmetics and supplements.

“There are a lot of potentials (for these products). Just by having a small Halal seal will bring big difference to your products being exported abroad,” he stressed. 

Meanwhile, Admad invited local exporters to participate in the 11th Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) slated on April 9 to 12 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

“We are able to get a lot of businessmen from all over the world. So it is time for you to look at new products for you to bring in to the Philippine market as well,” he said.                      – Philexport

In 2013, MIHAS was participated in by 463 exhibitors from 30 countries and attract