Thailand Aims to Lead ASEAN’s Halal Food Industry by 2027

Ambitious Halal Market Expansion

Targeting Global Leadership

Thailand is intensifying efforts to capture a larger share of the global halal food market, projected to reach $1.89 trillion by 2027. With a strategic goal to become ASEAN’s primary halal production hub by 2027, the government is leveraging its robust food industry to boost exports and economic growth in 2025 and beyond.

Strong Growth in Halal Exports

2023 Achievements and Beyond

In 2023, Thailand’s halal food exports grew by 4% to 222.3 billion baht, ranking 11th globally. The National Halal Industry Committee’s four-year plan (2024–2027) targets a 1.2% increase in industrial GDP, aiming to generate 55 billion baht and 100,000 jobs annually, solidifying Thailand’s position in the halal sector by 2027.

Strategic Initiatives Underway

Thai Halal Industry Center Launched

The establishment of the Thai Halal Industry Center in 2024, showcased at THAIFEX-Anuga Asia, promotes halal products through international trade and innovation. Business matching activities generated 335 million baht in trade, highlighting Thailand’s commitment to becoming a halal hub in ASEAN by 2027.

Infrastructure and Innovation Focus

Thailand Halal Valley Development

The government is developing the Thailand Halal Valley in the southern region as a centralized hub for halal production, incorporating advanced testing labs and workforce training. This initiative, alongside the Halal Intelligence Unit, aims to enhance supply chains and market analysis, boosting Thailand’s competitiveness in 2025.

Diverse Halal Product Portfolio

Beyond Food to Fashion and Tourism

Thailand’s halal strategy spans food, fashion, cosmetics, and tourism, with key products like processed meats, seafood, and ready-to-eat meals. The country’s halal tourism sector, ranked fourth globally for non-OIC Muslim destinations, further supports its bid to dominate ASEAN’s halal market by 2027.

Overcoming Regional Challenges

Competing with Malaysia and Singapore

Despite ranking first in ASEAN for halal exports, Thailand faces competition from Malaysia’s established halal ecosystem and Singapore’s advanced hub plans. By upgrading certification standards and reducing trade barriers, Thailand aims to strengthen its global credibility and market share in 2025.

Government and Private Sector Synergy

Unified Push for Halal Excellence

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s “Ignite Thailand” vision drives collaboration between government agencies, like the Ministry of Industry, and private sectors. With support from the Central Islamic Council of Thailand, Thailand’s halal industry is poised for exponential growth, targeting top-five global exporter status by 2027.