The Bureau of Philippine Standards (DTI-BPS), the country's National Standards Body (NSB), has issued Philippine National Standard (PNS) 2161:2021 for Halal cosmetics and toiletries to help local manufacturers reach export potential.

This followed after Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez called on local businesses, especially micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), to explore the Halal market, not just on food but also cosmetics and toiletries.

PNS 2161:2021 establishes the general requirements for the Halal cosmetics and toiletries. It is intended as a tool for local manufacturers to extend their market reach and realize the export potential of Halal cosmetics and toiletries.

"The Halal cosmetics and toiletries market is promising as the demand is not only coming from within the Muslim community but extends to consumers who advocate eco-friendly and eco-ethical products," said DTI-BPS Director Neil P. Catajay. "Our local MSMEs can seize this economic opportunity with the expected growth in this industry. PNS 2161:2021 will contribute in helping our MSMEs boost the competitiveness of their products, making them appealing to both local and export markets," said Catajay.

The standard contributes to the attainment of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) on Good Health and Well-Being (Goal 3); Decent Work and Economic Growth (Goal 8); and Responsible Consumption and Production (Goal 12). Moreover, the standard supports the research and development project of the Department of Science and Technology - Industrial Technology Development Institute (DOST-ITDI) titled: “Establishment of Halal-Compliant Standardized Process and Assurance System for Cosmetics and Toiletries”.

PNS is voluntary in nature and may be used as reference by any interested parties. The conformance to PNS or parts thereof becomes mandatory only when the same is used as reference in Technical Regulations issued by regulatory authorities such as the DTI.