Shafaqna English- Vietnam’s south-central province of Khanh Hoa is developing a halal economy that combines tourism, agriculture, food production and cultural heritage, targeting growing demand from Muslim markets in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
Khanh Hoa is implementing a plan to develop a unified halal ecosystem, with businesses at its centre, while positioning the province as a halal-friendly destination for international visitors and investors. The strategy aims to expand exports and attract investment in tourism, logistics, manufacturing, food processing and agriculture.
With more than 500 kilometres of coastline, nearly 200 islands and major destinations including Nha Trang and Cam Ranh, the province is targeting high-value Muslim travellers with luxury resorts, beach holidays, wellness, golf, cruises, ecotourism and Cham cultural experiences.
The UAE ambassador to Vietnam identified Khanh Hoa as a promising destination for high-value visitors from the UAE, citing its luxury resorts, privacy-focused accommodation and cultural links. The province plans to add halal-compliant hotels and restaurants, prayer facilities, staff training and specialised tourism packages, while expanding promotion in Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, Singapore and Middle Eastern markets.
Agriculture is another pillar of the strategy. Khanh Hoa has approved a VND200 billion ($7.6 million) project to develop halal-certified goat and sheep production through 2030. The plan targets at least 14 farming zones covering about 1,735 hectares, with 200,000 goats and 300,000 sheep, as well as at least two halal-standard slaughterhouses and modern processing facilities. The province aims to supply Southeast Asian, Middle Eastern and European markets.
Local businesses are already entering the halal market. Tri Tín Co Ltd has obtained halal certification for five sea grape and snack products, supporting exports to Islamic markets including Gulf Cooperation Council countries. The company says halal certification has strengthened consumer trust and created a competitive advantage in international markets.
Halal tourism operators are also emerging. Green Life Agricultural Tourism Cooperative has developed Muslim-friendly farm stays, private tours and halal food services aimed at visitors from Malaysia, Indonesia and the Middle East, while working to renew its halal certification.
Khanh Hoa’s broader strategy is to strengthen cooperation with halal certification bodies, airlines, diplomatic missions and international travel companies while developing certified local products and services. The province sees halal certification not only as a religious requirement but also as a tool for building consumer trust, expanding exports and increasing its competitiveness in the global halal economy.
Source: The Star