Malaysian government's Islamic Development Department, otherwise known as JAKIM, is looking into establishing a world-class Halal certifying body (HCB) in the Philippines, according to Trade Secretary Cristina Roque.

In a Facebook post, Roque announced that she met with representatives of JAKIM to discuss the potential collaboration.

JAKIM, a leading authority in Halal certification, is expected to foster potential benefits for local businesses, particularly in sectors like food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.

Roque said the foreign agency would be vital in providing certification, training, and market access to Filipino enterprises.

This would enhance the Philippines’ competitiveness, as well as to strengthen trade ties with neighboring Malaysia.

“This partnership is a significant step toward boosting the Philippines’ role in the global Halal economy,” she said.

In a message to reporters, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said JAKIM will conform to global and international standard, as part of the mandate of an HCB in the country.

Based on the website of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF), there are currently 12 accredited HCBs in the country.

An HCB examines food and non-food products to confirm if they are allowed for consumption or use by Muslims under the Sharia Law.

While the collaboration with JAKIM is still in its exploratory stage, the DTI chief has challenged the agency to fulfill its aspiration to be an HCB in the country within the year.

“With public and private partnerships, we can expect to ensure the support needed for the halal sector to flourish,” added Roque.

She noted that investors such as JAKIM should take advantage of the support provided by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to the halal industry.

“He has remaining 3 years and we should advantage of the support he is giving,” she added, referring to the Marcos’ term ending in 2028.

Further, Roque is pushing JAKIM to not only certify products but also provide assistance in marketing the local halal products.

She said a certification from HCBs should have a “multiplier effect.”

JAKIM, for its part, said it is ready to open new market opportunities for Filipino products in the global Halal industry.

Last year, the DTI launched the Philippine Halal Industry Development Strategic Plan, which runs up to 2028.

The plan seeks to transform the Philippines into a premiere Halal hub in the Asia-Pacific region, with potential ₱230 billion in trade and investments and 120,000 jobs by the end of Marcos’ term.