Manila: The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is targeting to double the Philippines’ halal trade revenues to almost PHP16 billion by 2025, following the success of the “Halal-Friendly Philippines” campaign in 2024. This ambitious goal is set to capitalize on the PHP7.9 billion generated from participating in various international expositions in the previous year.

According to Philippines News Agency, DTI Program Manager for Industry Development and Investments Promotions Group, Aleem Siddiqui Guiapal, shared these plans during an interview on Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon. Guiapal revealed that to achieve this target, the DTI plans to expand its reach into the United States, South Korea, Japan, and Turkey. He expressed optimism about doubling trade, revenues, and sales from the 2024 figures by covering these additional markets.

Guiapal highlighted the importance of promoting the ‘Halal-Friendly Philippines’ brand to enhance the visibility of halal products on a global scale. The Philippines made significant strides last year by participating in the Saudi International Halal Expo and the Abu Dhabi Food Expo, where it achieved substantial trade sales of PHP104.5 million in Saudi Arabia alone.

The DTI’s strategy includes ensuring that all halal products are Sharia-compliant, adhering strictly to halal certification standards. This involves proper methods of slaughtering animals like chicken and meat, exclusion of prohibited ingredients such as pork, and meeting the demands of both Muslim consumers and non-Muslims who are interested in healthier and ethically-produced options.

Guiapal also noted the increasing interest among Filipino manufacturers in obtaining halal certification, aiming to tap into lucrative markets in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. The term ‘halal,’ meaning lawful or permissible in Arabic, encompasses actions, behaviors, or items acceptable in Islam.