Philippines Establishes National Halal Office to Strengthen Domestic and Global Market Presence

On December 17, 2024, the Philippines launched the National Halal Industry Development Office (NHIDO) under the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). This initiative supports the government's Halal strategy, and aims to enhance the country's position in the global Halal market.

Overview of the Halal Market and Strategic Plan

The Halal industry in the Philippines is set for significant growth, fueled by an increasing Muslim population, rising tourism, and a growing demand for Halal products. With approximately 12 million Muslims—10% of the population—the demand for Halal goods and services is rising. The country is also becoming a key destination for Muslim tourists, further driving the need for Halal-compliant infrastructure.

In January 2024, the Philippines unveiled the four-year Philippine Halal Industry Development Strategic Plan to harness these opportunities.¹ Key objectives of the plan include: 

1. Increasing Halal output to meet growing domestic and international demand;

2. Establishing a national brand to position the Philippines as the leading Halal-friendly hub in the Asia Pacific;

3. Creating a one-stop shop to facilitate stakeholder coordination;

4. Building a comprehensive Halal value chain through regional development, knowledge management, skills development, investment promotion, and capacity building.

Key Roles of NHIDO

NHIDO will coordinate all Halal development efforts, engaging stakeholders to build a unified and strong Halal industry.² Its key responsibilities are:

• Simplifying Halal Certification and Standards: NHIDO will work to make Halal certification more accessible, particularly for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), by offering capacity-building programs and specialized training;

• Promoting Public Awareness: Through various media platforms and community outreach initiatives, the office will address misconceptions about Halal, foster inclusivity, and highlight the broader economic benefits of the industry;

• Enhancing Infrastructure, Governance, and Regional Integration: NHIDO will collaborate with local government units and relevant agencies to support the development of Halal-compliant infrastructure, while strengthening supply chains across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao to establish efficient Halal trade hubs;

• Strengthening Data Management: NHIDO will develop a comprehensive Halal industry database, and establish monitoring and evaluation systems to ensure data-driven planning and responsive programs.

With the creation of the NHIDO and the implementation of the Halal strategic plan, the Philippines is well on its way to strengthening its foothold in the Halal market, fostering economic growth, and enhancing its global competitiveness in the sector.

Further Reading

• Philippines FDA Finalizes Revisions to LTO Guidelines

• Guide to Securing a License to Operate (LTO) in the Philippines

• Philippines Develops Guidelines on Cosmetics Refilling Licensing