Bangladesh Faces Halal Certification Challenges in Booming Global Market

According to Mahbubul Alam, President of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), Bangladesh’s burgeoning halal market confronts significant certification challenges, despite the global industry’s tremendous growth.

Highlighting the expanding demand in Muslim and non-Muslim countries, Alam stressed that a substantial portion of the halal sector’s revenue comes from nations affiliated with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The industry was valued at a staggering $3.7 trillion in 2020, underscoring its economic significance on the world stage.

Speaking at an event marking the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the FBCCI and the Islamic Organisation for Food Security (IOFS) in Dhaka, Alam voiced concerns about the complexities tied to halal certification in Bangladesh. The responsibility for this certification rests with the ‘Department of Halal Certification’ under the Islamic Foundation.

“For the halal market to truly thrive, there’s an urgent need for improved coordination and collaboration across different OIC entities. Simplifying the halal certification process is pivotal,” emphasized Alam. Furthermore, he called upon OIC member nations to invest in enhancing Bangladesh’s agricultural infrastructure, particularly highlighting the cold chain logistics.

Yerlan Baidaulet, Director General of IOFS, lauded Bangladesh for its strides in agro-production. He said, “The global halal market holds immense potential, and its growth trajectory is remarkable. Interestingly, non-Muslim countries currently dominate this market. This presents an opportune moment for Muslim-majority nations to seize a larger market share.”

Recent financial data underscores this potential. In the fiscal year 2022-2023, Bangladesh exported halal products worth an impressive $843.03 million.

Key FBCCI officials, including Senior Vice-President Md Amin Helaly and Vice-Presidents Khairul Huda Chopol, Joshoda Jibon Deb Nath, Rashadul Hossain Chowdhury (Ronni), and Md Munir Hossain, were present at this significant event, symbolizing the importance of the halal market in Bangladesh’s economic future.