Bangladesh Strengthens Halal Trade Links With Malaysia

Bangladesh is now working closely with Malaysia to grow its halal trade. Both countries want to increase their cooperation in producing and selling halal products like food, medicine, cosmetics, and daily-use items. This partnership is expected to help Bangladesh boost its exports and create more job opportunities.

Business Leaders Come Together

A recent seminar was held in Dhaka by the Bangladesh-Malaysia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BMCCI). The goal of the event was to discuss ways to improve trade in the halal sector. Business leaders and government officials from both countries took part in the event.

Malaysia Offers Support and Experience

At the seminar, Malaysia’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Mohd Shuhada Othman, said that Malaysia is ready to support Bangladesh in growing its halal industry. Malaysia already has a strong global reputation in halal certification, and its experience can help Bangladesh build its own system. By learning from Malaysia, Bangladeshi companies can improve product quality and gain access to international markets.

A Big Export Opportunity for Bangladesh

Leaders from the BMCCI shared that Bangladesh has great potential to grow in this area. If the country develops its halal sector properly, it could export between $7 billion and $8 billion worth of halal products to Malaysia and other ASEAN countries by 2030. This is a big opportunity, especially as the global demand for halal goods keeps rising.

Global Halal Market is Booming

According to industry reports, the global halal market is currently worth over $3 trillion and could reach nearly $10 trillion by 2034. This growth is being driven by the rising number of Muslim consumers and the increasing demand for clean, safe, and high-quality products. Many non-Muslim buyers also prefer halal-certified goods for their hygiene and safety standards.

Government Plans Halal Industrial Zones

Bangladesh’s government is also taking steps to support this industry. Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun, Executive Chairman of BIDA and BEZA, said that the country is planning to build halal industrial zones. These zones will provide better facilities and infrastructure for companies to produce halal products in a certified environment. The government is also working on training people and making the halal certification process easier.

Showcasing Products Internationally

In 2024, Bangladesh participated in the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS), one of the world’s largest halal trade events. Many Bangladeshi businesses showcased their products, including halal food, fashion items, and leather goods. They received positive feedback from buyers and investors from across the world.

Halal Means Quality and Trust

The main message from the seminar was that halal is not just about religious needs. It also stands for quality, safety, and trust. Products with halal certification meet high standards and are suitable for a wider audience, including non-Muslims. This makes halal trade a strong and growing global market.

More Focus on Halal Production

Bangladeshi businesses are now being encouraged to focus more on halal production. With the help of Malaysia, local companies can improve their processes, meet international standards, and explore bigger markets. This will also help the country reduce its over-dependence on garments by opening new export areas.

Win-Win Partnership

The halal partnership with Malaysia is seen as a win-win situation. Malaysia brings years of knowledge and experience in halal trade, while Bangladesh offers a large labor force and growing industries. Together, they can help each other grow and serve the global halal market.

Positive Impact on Economy and Jobs

Experts believe that this cooperation will increase exports, improve product standards, and bring foreign investment. It will also create thousands of new jobs for Bangladeshi workers. The government and business community are working hand in hand to make this happen.

A Bright Future for Halal Trade

Bangladesh has a Muslim-majority population, so halal production is already a natural fit. With proper support and the right policies, the country can become a leading halal export hub in South Asia.

In the coming years, Bangladesh plans to improve its halal certification system, train more skilled workers, and promote its products in international exhibitions. The country is also inviting foreign companies to invest in its halal sector.

By building strong ties with Malaysia, Bangladesh is taking a big step forward. This partnership will help improve the halal supply chain, increase exports, and grow the economy. It shows how teamwork between two friendly countries can bring real change and open new doors.