Penang: Global geopolitical uncertainties, which have impacted the world's halal supply chains, should not be seen as a threat but as an opening for Malaysia to strengthen its position as a stable and resilient halal hub. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi highlighted the conflict in West Asia, particularly involving strategic routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, and its significant impact on global supply chains. This has created a domino effect on the halal industry, affecting logistics costs, causing shipment delays, and creating uncertainty over market access.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid noted that halal products, especially fresh food and temperature-controlled goods, rely heavily on an efficient and stable global supply chain. Rising energy and raw material costs are also affecting production costs. Despite these challenges, he emphasized that global uncertainty provides an opportunity for Malaysia to reinforce its status as a stable, trusted, and resilient halal hub. Diversifying export markets, strengthening domestic supply chains, and improving logistics efficiency are key factors in ensuring continued growth of the country's halal industry.
Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as the Minister of Rural and Regional Development, stated that the global demand for halal products is projected to reach around USD5 trillion by 2030. This presents a significant opportunity for Malaysia to expand its market share, as halal products cater not only to Muslims but to people of all religions and countries. He urged Malaysian halal product producers to capitalize on this potential.
The Deputy Prime Minister revealed that in 2024, Malaysia's halal export value reached RM61.79 billion, with domestic products making inroads into key markets such as China, Singapore, Japan, the United States, and Indonesia. The food and beverage sector emerged as the largest contributor, with a value exceeding RM34.03 billion, followed by the burgeoning halal ingredients sector.
Based on the Halal Industry Master Plan 2030 (HIMP 2030), Ahmad Zahid mentioned that Malaysia has set its sights on increasing the halal industry's contribution to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to 11 percent, achieving an export value of RM70 billion, and creating approximately 700,000 highly skilled job opportunities.