Why Buddhist-Majority Thailand Ranks Among Top 10 Halal Product Exporters Worldwide?

At first glance, Buddhist-majority Thailand may not seem like an obvious leader in the Halal industry, but the country has rapidly emerged as a dominant force in both Halal exports and Muslim-friendly tourism. With over 180,000 Halal-certified products and Halal exports valued at $7.24 billion in 2023, Thailand has secured its position as the eighth-largest exporter of Halal products globally. This achievement didn’t happen by chance—it’s the result of Thailand’s strategic efforts to develop its Halal sector, blending innovation, certification standards, and a deep understanding of global demand. By capitalizing on its geographical location and leveraging its expertise in food production, Thailand is not only a regional leader in the ASEAN market but also a key player in the global Halal economy. Whether you’re a business owner or a curious reader, understanding Thailand’s journey in the Halal space offers valuable insights into how non-Muslim countries can thrive in the global Halal market.

Buddhist Thailand: Commitment to the Halal Industry

Associate Professor Pakorn Priyakorn, Director of the Halal Standards Institute of Thailand, highlighted that Thailand has been a key player in the global Halal industry since 2001. Speaking at the 13th World HAPEX in Hat Yai in September 2024, Priyakorn emphasized how the country’s investment in Halal certification and infrastructure has fueled its rise in the sector. “Thailand’s position as one of the top ten Halal product exporters globally showcases the nation’s commitment to this industry,” said Lieutenant Sorawud Preededilok, Minister attached to the Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA).

Preededilok also explained that the country’s growing focus on the Halal sector is not only about exports but also about serving its domestic Muslim population, which makes up 6% of Thailand’s nearly 70 million residents. This blend of domestic demand and a strategic push for international trade has enabled Thailand to thrive in the global Halal market.

Halal Tourism: A Growing Segment

In addition to being a top exporter of Halal products, Thailand is also making waves in the Halal tourism sector. According to the 2024 Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI), Thailand ranks fifth among non-OIC (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation) countries as a favored destination for Muslim travelers. This ranking highlights the country’s efforts to accommodate Muslim tourists by offering an increasing array of Halal food options and providing Muslim-friendly amenities such as prayer rooms at popular tourist attractions.

Thailand’s tourism industry recognizes that the needs of Muslim travelers go beyond just food. “Muslim tourists often look for hotels equipped with prayer mats, Qibla direction indicators, and even separate gym facilities for men and women,” explained Asman Taeali, Director of the Halal Institute at the Prince of Songkla University. These additions are part of Thailand’s larger vision to establish itself as a hub for Halal tourism, particularly in the wellness and hospitality sectors.

Halal Science: A Cutting-Edge Approach

Thailand’s commitment to the Halal industry goes beyond tourism and food exports. The country is also home to one of the most advanced Halal certification systems in the world. The Halal Science Center at Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok plays a critical role in ensuring that products meet strict Halal standards. The center uses forensic laboratory testing to detect any potential contamination and works closely with manufacturers and Islamic committees to certify products.

“Part of our responsibility is to perform random checks on products available in markets and supermarkets to ensure ongoing compliance with Halal standards,” explained Sulida Wangchi, Assistant Director at the Halal Science Center. The center also receives products from international sources, testing them to confirm their Halal status before they enter the market.

In recent years, Thailand’s advancements in Halal science have played a critical role in securing its position as a leading exporter. The rigorous testing methods employed by the Halal Science Center not only ensure that Halal products maintain their integrity but also bolster consumer confidence, both domestically and internationally. By providing accurate and reliable testing, Thailand has gained a strong reputation in the global Halal market.

Halal Awareness

Beyond its scientific and certification role, the Halal Science Center is deeply involved in educating the public about Halal practices. The center regularly hosts lectures and welcomes visitors from Muslim organizations, schools, and universities, both from Thailand and abroad, to raise awareness about Halal standards in food, cosmetics, medicines, and even tourism services.

“This is not just about food anymore,” said Alaa Abdelall El-Nemr, Head of Egypt’s Veterinary Medicine Directorate, who participated in the Global Halal Forum in Thailand. “The concept of Halal now covers a broad range of products and services, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and medical tourism.”

This shift in the perception of Halal products is especially important in today’s globalized economy, where consumers are more discerning about the products they purchase. For many Muslim consumers, Halal now represents a broader set of ethical and spiritual values that encompass not only dietary laws but also sustainable and ethical production practices. Thailand’s proactive approach to educating consumers and businesses about the growing scope of Halal is positioning the country to meet these evolving demands.

Thailand’s Ambitions in the Halal Market

Thailand’s success in the Halal industry is no accident. The country has worked diligently to position itself as a leader in both the export of Halal products and the development of Halal-friendly tourism and wellness services. As the country continues to expand its Halal infrastructure and market outreach, it is poised to become a central hub for Halal products and services in the region.

At events like the World HAPEX Thailand, industry leaders from around the world gather to exchange ideas and foster international collaboration on Halal standards. As Thailand strengthens its role in the global Halal market, it continues to leverage its unique position as a Buddhist-majority nation with a strong commitment to serving the needs of both its Muslim population and the broader global Halal community.

The Influence of Halal Products on the Global Stage

Thailand’s export market for Halal products is growing at an impressive rate, with the country’s Halal-certified products being shipped to key markets such as the Middle East, Europe, and Southeast Asia. These markets are not only vital for Thailand’s economy but also represent significant opportunities for the global expansion of Halal products.

In the Middle East, demand for high-quality Halal products has been steadily rising, and Thailand’s focus on rigorous certification and high production standards has enabled it to capture a growing share of this lucrative market. Similarly, in Europe, where Halal products are increasingly sought after by both Muslim and non-Muslim consumers, Thailand’s commitment to ethical and sustainable practices has allowed it to distinguish itself from competitors.

The increasing demand for Halal-certified products extends beyond food, with sectors such as cosmetics and pharmaceuticals also experiencing significant growth. In these areas, Thailand’s focus on innovation and quality control has been key to its success. By incorporating Halal certification into a wide range of consumer goods, Thailand is setting a new standard for the global Halal industry.

Role of Domestic Consumption

While Buddhist Thailand has focused on Halal exports as a critical component of its success, domestic consumption also plays a vital role. With a Muslim population of over 4 million people, Thailand has a strong internal market for Halal products. This domestic demand has created a foundation upon which the country has built its export strategy.”

Moreover, the Thai government has recognized the importance of supporting local businesses in their efforts to produce Halal-certified goods. Initiatives such as the Halal logistics management curriculum, developed by the Prince of Songkla University, aim to streamline the supply chain and ensure that Halal products are available throughout the country. This support for domestic producers not only strengthens the local economy but also enhances Thailand’s reputation as a global leader in the Halal industry.

The Future of Halal Tourism in Thailand

Looking ahead, Thailand’s ambitions in the Halal industry extend beyond products and certification. The country is also positioning itself as a top destination for Halal tourism. With its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and an increasing number of Halal-certified hotels and restaurants, Thailand is attracting a growing number of Muslim tourists from around the world.

The 2024 Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index noted that Thailand ranked fifth among non-OIC countries for Muslim travelers, a significant achievement that reflects the country’s commitment to enhancing its offerings for this growing market. By focusing on the specific needs of Muslim travelers, such as providing prayer rooms, Halal food options, and family-friendly environments, Thailand is creating a welcoming atmosphere that caters to a diverse range of tourists.

Buddhist Thailand is rising as a Halal powerhouse as the result of years of strategic planning, investment, and collaboration. From its strong export market to its growing role in Halal tourism, Thailand is setting itself apart as a leader in the global Halal industry. As the country continues to expand its reach and develop new initiatives to support the Halal market, it is clear that Buddhist Thailand’s influence in this sector will only continue to grow.

With its unique position as a Buddhist-majority country that is committed to serving both its Muslim population and the global Halal market, Thailand is well on its way to becoming a central hub for Halal products and services in the years to come. The combination of rigorous standards, innovative approaches, and a focus on ethical and sustainable practices ensures that Thailand’s role in the Halal industry will remain significant on the world stage.