Bangladesh Seeks OIC Support to Strengthen Halal Certification System

Bangladesh has formally reached out to the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) for support in enhancing its halal certification system, aiming to strengthen its position in the global halal economy. The request was made by Religious Affairs Adviser Dr. AFM Khalid Hossain during a meeting at the COMSTECH Centre in Islamabad, Pakistan, on 11 September 2025.

With a Muslim-majority population of over 170 million, Bangladesh already operates halal certification activities through the Islamic Foundation Bangladesh. However, gaps remain in technical capacity, international recognition, and traceability, limiting the country’s ability to fully participate in the rapidly growing global halal trade. Officials believe that with OIC support, Bangladesh could overcome these limitations and establish itself as a credible hub for halal products.

Why Bangladesh Needs OIC Support

Although Bangladesh has made progress in halal certification, challenges persist. Many officials lack advanced training in international halal standards, and certification processes are not always aligned with global best practices. This means Bangladeshi products sometimes face hurdles in key markets, especially in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.

Another concern is the absence of digital traceability systems that allow halal compliance to be verified across the entire supply chain. In today’s global trade environment, such traceability is essential for maintaining consumer trust. By seeking OIC assistance, Bangladesh hopes to bridge these gaps and modernize its halal certification infrastructure.

Requests Presented to the OIC

During the Islamabad meeting, Bangladesh highlighted several areas where it needs help. The government called for technical cooperation under the OIC’s COMSTECH program to train certification personnel and upgrade institutional capacity. It also requested guidance in aligning national halal standards with international norms, so Bangladeshi certificates gain wider acceptance abroad.

Another key proposal was the creation of a stronger halal institute, with OIC oversight, that could serve as a center for training, research, and technological development. Scholarships for madrasa students and other young learners were also discussed, with the aim of equipping future professionals to work in halal auditing, compliance, and related fields.

Economic Impact and Opportunities

Improving halal certification would unlock significant opportunities for Bangladesh. Stronger certification could boost exports of food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals by easing entry into global halal markets. This would not only increase revenues but also enhance Bangladesh’s reputation as a reliable source of high-quality halal products.

The government also expects better certification systems to create new jobs, as demand for halal auditors, lab technicians, and supply chain experts grows. For businesses, credible certification could improve consumer confidence, allowing them to position products at a premium in international markets.

Current Challenges

Despite the potential, Bangladesh faces real challenges. Certification is currently handled by multiple bodies, including the Islamic Foundation and BSTI, which sometimes creates overlaps and confusion. Limited infrastructure—such as modern laboratories and cold chain facilities—also affects the country’s ability to guarantee compliance.

Bangladesh’s halal certificates are not always accepted internationally, making it difficult for exporters to access lucrative markets. While Bangladesh is a member of SMIIC, the OIC’s standards and metrology body, further alignment is required before its certifications are universally recognized.

OIC Role and Next Steps

The OIC, particularly through COMSTECH, plays a central role in providing scientific and technical cooperation among member states. For Bangladesh, this support could include training programs, capacity-building workshops, and collaborative projects on halal traceability and food safety. If implemented, these initiatives could lead to more robust certification processes and closer integration into the global halal economy.

Looking ahead, observers expect formal cooperation programs to be launched, possibly focusing on pilot projects in food and cosmetics. Establishing a national halal institute with OIC guidance is also on the agenda, which would help build expertise and raise Bangladesh’s profile as a halal exporter.

Bangladesh’s call for OIC support reflects its determination to become a stronger player in the international halal market. By focusing on technical training, standard harmonization, and institutional strengthening, the country aims to create a certification system that inspires global trust. If these reforms are realized, Bangladesh could secure a stronger foothold in the trillion-dollar halal economy, benefiting its businesses, workers, and consumers alike.