The Indonesian Ministry of Trade, through its Trade Policy Agency, has identified five priority countries for halal product exports: Malaysia, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Thailand, and Saudi Arabia. During a media briefing in Jakarta on December 20, 2024, Septika Tri Ardianti, a junior trade analyst at the Ministry of Trade, highlighted these nations as strategic markets. Malaysia and Thailand are critical ASEAN partners, while Turkey and the UAE serve as regional trade hubs. Saudi Arabia, on the other hand, offers opportunities through its integrated ecosystem for hajj and umrah services. These markets align with Indonesia's broader strategy to penetrate the halal product demand in Muslim-majority countries and member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
Global demand for halal products is projected to grow at an annual rate of 7.6%, reaching USD 492 billion by 2027. However, leading suppliers to OIC countries currently include China, the United States, and France. Speaking at the event, KNEKS Director of Sharia Business and Entrepreneurship, Putu Rahwidhiyasa, emphasized that Indonesia must establish itself as a trusted provider of high-quality halal goods. Mohammad Bawazeer, Chair of the Kadin’s Middle East and OIC Standing Committee, urged Indonesia to leverage its OIC membership to enhance market access, particularly in the Middle East. He stressed the importance of navigating regulatory challenges and adhering to international standards. Additionally, BPJPH Chief Ahmad Haikal Hasan underscored the obligation for halal certification of all products distributed in Indonesia, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to halal assurance.
