The halal industry is experiencing significant growth, extending its reach beyond traditional food sectors into cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, finance, and tourism. This expansion is fueled by a growing global Muslim population and increasing demand for ethically sourced and sustainable products and services. Recent developments highlight the diverse opportunities within this evolving landscape.
Key Developments Across Sectors
Halal Food Industry in Canada:
Canada’s halal food sector is rapidly expanding, driven by immigration and a broader interest in ethically sourced options. Projections indicate the Canadian halal meat sector will reach $300 million by 2031, with annual growth rates between 10% and 15%. However, the industry faces challenges due to fragmented certification processes, leading to potential confusion and inconsistent standards. Addressing these challenges is crucial to maintaining consumer trust and facilitating further growth.
Pharmaceutical Advancements:
Malaysian pharmaceutical company Pharmaniaga Berhad is collaborating with Uzbekistan to produce halal-certified insulin. This partnership involves technology transfer to support local production using existing pharmaceutical infrastructure, marking a significant step in making halal-compliant pharmaceuticals more accessible.
Financial Inclusion:
London-based Ayan Capital, an Islamic car financing provider, recently secured up to £25 million in Shariah-compliant financing. This funding aims to broaden access to halal finance across the UK, with plans to finance £25 million in 2025 and £100 million the following year, supporting ethical consumer choices in the automotive sector.
Tourism and Hospitality:
Malaysia Airlines is partnering with the Hong Kong Tourism Board to attract Malaysian travelers to Hong Kong. The city is enhancing its Muslim-friendly facilities, including halal-certified eateries and hotels, to cater to the specific needs of Muslim tourists, showcasing the growing importance of halal tourism.
Cosmetics Market Boom:
The global halal cosmetics market is projected to experience substantial growth, reaching US$ 135.54 billion by 2033, up from US$ 45.30 billion in 2024. This growth, with a compound annual growth rate of 12.95%, is driven by an increasing Muslim population, demand for ethical standards, and rising popularity among non-Muslim consumers who value the integrity and safety associated with halal-certified products.
Opportunities and Challenges
The halal market presents numerous opportunities for businesses that align with Islamic principles and ethical consumerism. However, challenges such as inconsistent certification standards and the need for greater awareness and education remain. Overcoming these hurdles will be crucial for realizing the full potential of the halal economy.
Conclusion
The expansion of the halal market beyond food into pharmaceuticals, finance, tourism, and cosmetics highlights its increasing importance in the global economy. As the demand for ethically sourced and Shariah-compliant products and services continues to rise, businesses that adapt to these trends are poised for success. Addressing certification challenges and promoting greater understanding of halal principles will further unlock the vast potential of this dynamic market.