Tunisia is positioning itself as a key player in the global halal market, which is projected to reach $3,600 billion by 2029. According to Mourad Ben Hussein, CEO of the Centre for the Promotion of Exports (CEPEX), the country's strategic location makes it an ideal gateway between European, African, and Islamic markets. The CEPEX is working to promote Tunisian businesses in the halal sector.
The global halal market extends beyond food and beverages to include sectors such as medical devices, pharmaceuticals, Islamic finance, tourism, and related activities. In Tunisia, around 40 companies have obtained halal certification, up from 20 in 2023. The National Institute for Standardization and Industrial Property (INNORPI) is responsible for issuing halal conformity certificates.
To support the growth of the halal sector, a convention has been signed between the organizer of the World Halal Trade Forum and the Tunisian-Emirati Bank (BTE) to provide financing for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This will enable them to invest, expand, and comply with halal requirements. Access to financing is crucial for SMEs to integrate into the halal economy.
Mourad Ben Hussein emphasized the need for continued efforts to encourage Tunisian companies to join the halal sector and capitalize on opportunities in the global market. The CEPEX is working to promote the country's halal industry and increase its presence in international markets. Tunisia is also bidding to host the 2027 World Halal Congress, organized by the Islamic Countries' Standards and Metrology Institute (SMIIC).
Hosting the World Halal Congress would provide Tunisia with an opportunity to strengthen its position in the halal economy, promote its businesses and products, and open up new trade prospects. The event would also enable the country to showcase its capabilities as a hub for halal trade between Europe, Africa, and Islamic markets.
The Tunisian government is working to promote the country's halal sector through various initiatives, including awareness-raising activities and training programs. The goal is to increase the number of certified halal companies and enhance the country's competitiveness in the global market.
Tunisia's bid to host the 2027 World Halal Congress is being coordinated with the Ministry of Trade and Export Development. If successful, the event would be a significant milestone for the country's halal industry and would help to further establish Tunisia as a key player in the global halal market.
Key points
- The global halal market is projected to reach $3,600 billion by 2029.
- Tunisia aims to host the 2027 World Halal Congress.
- Around 40 Tunisian companies have obtained halal certification.
