The United Arab Emirates is planning to challenge Malaysia as the global hub of the halal food industry by implementing internationally recognised certification standards and encouraging the re-export of halal products through the gulf state’s trading centres.
Halal Products Standards
In November last the UAE’s food standards authority launched a new ‘Halal National Mark’ to standardise Halal certification in the country. The new mark will have to be carried by any product, service or production system declared as Halal, with all products facing a testing regime designed by the Emirates Authority for Standardization & Metrology (ESMA).
The standards have already been published, however no date has been announced for implementation of the guidelines.
Global Trade of Halal Products
Dubai Exports, the emirates export promotion agency, is also signing memoranda of understanding with trade bodies from food exporting countries around the world in a bid to improve global Halal trade.
The goal is to create a Halal trade network using common standards for Halal products. This would allow companies wanting to export Halal compliant products to tap into a network of other producers and distributors, making it easier to sell Halal products around the world.
Halal Products: Looking Ahead
The Halal market is one of many rapidly growing markets based upon specific consumer dietary demands and trends. These markets present both a challenge and an opportunity to prospective businesses, as they hold great value but require strategic foresight and business planning to seize.
At Farrelly Mitchell, we offer critical guidance to food and agribusinesses seeking market entry & development. With a deep knowledge of the livestock, poultry, and dairy industries, as well as emerging food ingredients & alternative protein trends, our market intelligence & insights can help businesses enter new markets seamlessly and successfully. To learn more, contact us today.
