PHILEXPORT has reaffirmed its support for the development of the Halal industry and the Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East Asian Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA).
Philexport president Sergio R. Ortiz-Luis Jr. highlighted the organization’s early recognition of the region’s potential during his closing remarks at the 1st PCCI BIMP-EAGA Trade Investment and Halal Industry Conference on August 20, 2024.
“In the 1990s, PHILEXPORT first saw the tremendous opportunities in the BIMP-EAGA region,” Ortiz-Luis said, noting their early actions, including a study on the region under a USAID project.
“BIMP-EAGA is the logical venue through which Halal investments and trade should further flourish.”
Ortiz-Luis underscored the importance of Halal certification, stating that Halal standards have emerged as benchmarks of superior quality for all consumers, regardless of religion.
“What the Halal stakeholders are doing towards competitiveness provides more meaning, considering that safety and traceability have become a basic requirement for industry, governments, and consumers,” he added.
He commended both the government and the private sector for establishing a policy framework and infrastructure to support this industry.
However, he stressed the need for the harmonization of Halal standards within the BIMP-EAGA region to fully leverage its $2.8 trillion market potential.
Looking ahead, Ortiz-Luis projected continued growth in the country’s Halal export industry, driven by regular engagement in Halal-themed advocacies, international conferences, trade fairs, and business missions.
