Thailand has recognized the potential of the rapidly growing global Halal market and is eager to integrate its economy into this sector. The forum aimed to capitalize on the “creative synergy of global halal.” Held in Bangkok from July 15th to 18th, 2025, the event was attended by several internationally renowned halal accreditation and certification bodies.
Among the key speakers was former Prime Minister of Thailand, Mr. Srettha Thavisin, who urged ASEAN nations to align their efforts and tap into the global Halal market, which serves over two billion consumers. He emphasized that Halal trade could be a key engine of growth, especially for countries looking to diversify exports and strengthen regional partnerships.
A central issue raised was Thailand’s limited competitiveness in U.S. markets. While Vietnam faces tariffs of just 20%, Thai exports are subject to para-tariffs as high as 36%, placing Thai producers at a significant disadvantage. Thavisin stressed the need to pivot towards new markets, particularly in the Middle East and Africa, where halal-certified products are in increasing demand.
He also called for enhanced public sector support for entrepreneurs and SMEs in the halal sector, including improved access to capital and streamlined trade facilitation.
Thailand’s halal-related food exports to Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) countries alone surpassed USD 7.1 billion in early 2024, underlining the sector’s growing economic importance.
Mega Halal Bangkok 2025 brought together leading halal certification bodies from across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa and served as a platform to explore mutual recognition frameworks and trade cooperation.
With global demand rising and regulatory harmonisation underway, Thailand’s halal strategy offers a roadmap for regional economies seeking to boost trade, ensure product integrity, and strengthen their presence in Muslim-majority markets.
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