by: Gelaine Gutierrez
QUEZON CITY, (PIA) — The Philippines is set to make its inaugural appearance at the Saudi International Halal Expo, the largest halal exhibition in the Middle East, from October 28 to 30. This significant participation aims to enhance the country’s presence in the global halal market.
Led by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Philippine delegation will showcase a diverse range of local products from sectors including food, finance, tourism, and travel. Exhibits will include agricultural products like coconut oil, fruits, and nutraceutical foods, as well as baked goods and wellness items.
The event aligns with the Philippine government’s “Halal-friendly Philippines” initiative, which seeks to position the country as a leading hub for halal markets in the Asia-Pacific region.
It also supports the government’s ambition to attract $4 billion in investments and create approximately 120,000 jobs by 2028.
DTI Task Force Halal Industry Development Program Manager Aleem Siddiqui Guiapal emphasized the strength of the Filipino halal market, particularly in agricultural goods. He noted that construction companies will also be part of the delegation.
“We’re looking at participating not just in MIHAS (Malaysia International Halal Showcase) and Gulfood, but also KSA (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia) and Turkey World Halal Forum, as well as Thailand Halal Assembly and Abu Dhabi,” Guiapal said, highlighting DTI’s target of achieving a 20% growth in halal sales this year.
The Philippines has been enhancing its Muslim-friendly tourism through various halal initiatives and infrastructure improvements, aiming to recover from the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additionally, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) will join the delegation, with officials expressing plans to attract Islamic banks to establish operations in the Philippines.
BSP officer Winnie Claire Jamoner-Carbonel reiterated the importance of advancing the country’s Islamic financial services as part of this initiative. (GLG/PIA-NCR)
(Photo courtesy: Aleem Guiapal Facebook)
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