The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is aiming to double the Philippines’ halal trade revenues to almost PHP16 billion in 2025 following the successful “Halal-Friendly Philippines” campaign in 2024.

In a Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon interview on Tuesday, DTI Program Manager for Industry Development and Investments Promotions Group Aleem Siddiqui Guiapal said this target will build on the PHP7.9 billion generated from participating in different expositions abroad last year.

“So, for 2025, we’re going to expand in the United States, South Korea, Japan and Turkey or Istanbul. So hopefully, if we cover those countries, we’re expecting to double our trade and revenues and sales from 2024,” Guiapal said.

He said the DTI’s efforts to promote the “Halal-Friendly Philippines” brand were instrumental in boosting halal product visibility worldwide.

Last year, the Philippines made its debut at the Saudi International Halal Expo and the Abu Dhabi Food Expo.

The country generated significant trade sales of PHP104.5 million in Saudi Arabia.

Guiapal said DTI’s strategy to strengthen the local halal industry involves ensuring that all products are Sharia-compliant, with strict adherence to halal certification standards.

These standards require that food items, such as chicken and meat, are properly slaughtered; the products do not contain prohibited ingredients like pork; and that products meet the needs of Muslim consumers while appealing to non-Muslims seeking healthier and ethically-produced options.

Guiapal emphasized the growing interest of Filipino manufacturers in obtaining halal certification to penetrate lucrative markets in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.

Halal, an Arabic word that means lawful or permissible, applies to actions, behaviors or items that are acceptable in Islam. (PNA)