Shafaqna English- Bangladesh has the potential to capture a larger share of the rapidly expanding global Halal market, valued at $3 trillion and projected to reach $9.45 trillion by 2034, industry experts said. The country currently exports about $1 billion in Halal products but lacks the certification infrastructure needed for global competitiveness, according to the Dailystar.
Business leaders and officials said Bangladesh must adopt targeted reforms to unlock its potential in the Halal sector. A unified certification board combining the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI) and the Bangladesh Islamic Foundation (BIF) would streamline regulation and boost international credibility, said Razeev H Chowdhury, senior vice-president of the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI).
Experts also called for digital certification systems to replace manual processes. “Technology-driven audits would ensure transparency and faster approvals,” said Md Abul Kalam Azad of Paragon Group.
Bangladesh’s lack of accredited laboratories remains a major barrier. Establishing modern testing facilities for food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals would help exporters meet strict halal standards in Middle Eastern and European markets.
To strengthen traceability, Sayadul Haq Bhuiyan of Bengal Meat suggested using blockchain technology to monitor products from farm to shelf, ensuring authenticity and hygiene.
Developing a skilled workforce and engaging small and medium enterprises (SMEs) would further expand production capacity and product diversity, experts added.
Officials from the Bangladesh Accreditation Board and BIF urged the government to pursue international accreditation, warning that unrecognized local certificates risk rejection abroad.
Authorities also proposed branding initiatives, diplomatic outreach, and a dedicated halal economic zone to attract investment and position Bangladesh as a regional Halal manufacturing hub.
Industry insiders say that with coordinated reforms, Bangladesh could emerge as a major player in the global Halal economy, one of the fastest-growing consumer markets worldwide.
Source: Dailystar