Algiers – The Halal Economy Leadership Forum (HELF) 2025, held in Algiers, has placed a spotlight on Africa’s ambition to become a major player in the global Halal market, estimated to be worth over USD 3 trillion. The forum, which focused on cross-border trade, investment, and innovation, saw strong participation from Malaysia and Algeria, signaling the strengthening of economic ties between the two nations.
Malaysia-Algeria Trade Boost
Malaysia’s Halal exports to Algeria experienced a notable 24% increase in 2024, reaching RM156.3 million. Key export products include food and beverages, cosmetics, Halal-certified ingredients, and palm oil derivatives. The HELF 2025 was jointly hosted by the Halal Development Corporation Berhad (HDC), the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), and Halal Products Development Company (HPDC).
Africa’s Strategic Role
The forum underscored Africa’s strategic importance in the global Halal ecosystem, setting the stage for increased trade and investment activities. Participants explored opportunities to leverage the growing demand for Halal products and services across various sectors, including food, finance, travel, fashion, media, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
Global Halal Developments
In related news, Indonesia and Thailand have committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation in the halal industry. Furthermore, The Halal Product Assurance Organizing Agency (BPJPH) of Indonesia has signed a Letter of Intent with U.S. Halal bodies to enhance bilateral cooperation between Indonesia and the U.S. Also, Russia’s RusQuality agency is expanding its certification efforts amid growing global demand for halal-certified goods.
Understanding Halal
The term “halal” refers to what is permissible under Islamic law. In the context of food, it involves specific methods of animal slaughter and processing, and the exclusion of pork and alcohol. The growth of the halal market is driven by a growing Muslim population, increasing awareness of halal products, and positioning halal as pure and hygienic.