SHANGHAI: Malaysia and China must tap into halal diplomacy to unlock new opportunities and greater potential, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

He said Malaysia values partnerships and alliances in the halal sector and added that countries could work together to leverage on their strengths and expertise so that halal products meet the highest standards for Muslim consumers worldwide.

The Deputy Prime Minister said that the global halal market is worth USD2.8tril, with BRICS and Asean accounting for half of it, totalling USD1.43tril.

He said international reports stated that in 2022, two billion Muslim consumers worldwide had spent USD2.29tril and added that this is a 9.5% increase from 2021.

“This highlights the enormous potential and opportunities for us to collaborate in the halal economy and engage in halal diplomacy,” he said in his opening remarks at the Halal Round Table Dialogue - Malaysia Your Halal Gateway here on Tuesday (Sept 10).

Ahmad Zahid said while China’s Muslim population of around 30 million represents a significant market opportunity, meeting halal export protocols could pose challenges, both domestically and internationally.

“I understand that Chinese industry players often face complex regulations and market access barriers, which can limit the full potential of halal export. Yet, with the right partnerships, these challenges can be turned into opportunities,” he said.

Ahmad Zahid said that as of July, Malaysia’s halal trade with China registered a figure of RM6.25bil and added that this includes ingredients, food and beverages, palm oil derivatives, industrial chemicals and cosmetics.

He then added that there is still untapped potential, particularly in certification and recognition.

The Deputy Prime Minister said that one key challenge China faces is the recognition of halal certificates, with Malaysia currently recognising 88 halal certification bodies worldwide, including six from China.

He then added that this roundtable session serves as an ideal platform to explore solutions, including ways to streamline certification processes for Chinese exporters and enhancing cooperation between Malaysia and China.

The Deputy Prime Minister said the Halal Development Corporation is prepared to assist in certification and consultation, training and trade facilitation.

“Let us find ways to ensure Chinese products meet Malaysia's halal standards and facilitate access to other markets that recognise Malaysian certificates,” he said.

Meanwhile, Halal Development Corporation chairman Khairul Azwan Harun said the agency plays a pivotal role in shaping the halal economy both locally and globally.

“HDC drives market growth, builds industry capacity and nurtures halal talents. This roundtable is a clear example of our commitment to these goals.

We are excited to collaborate with China, opening the door to new opportunities and strengthening the thriving halal sector here,” he said.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/09/10/malaysia-china-must-tap-into-halal-diplomacy-for-greater-potential-says-zahid