October 17, 2006

Muslim community in Mindanao launches halal certification

The Muslim community in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) in the Philippines has launched Muslim Mindanao Halal Certification, a private-sector led certifying board in an effort to address the inadequacy of a halal food certification framework in the Philippines.

Ustadz Esmael Ebrahim, vice chairman of the certifying body, told the Business Mirror that the country has failed to cash on the international halal market and the formation of a certifying body is appropriate for products in the ARMM region.
           
The 15-member certification board--comprised of muftis or Islamic scholars and scientists--earlier crafted guidelines on what comprises halal based on Islamic injunctions.
           
Halal certification is a system and process of determining what is permissible for consumption of Muslims. Halal certificates usually state that a certain product is free from haram, or food forbidden by Islam.
           
The global halal market is estimated to be at US$80 billion.
           
Ebrahim noted the guidelines were collated from other countries such as Australia, Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand practicing halal certification.
           
Meanwhile, ARMM Trade Secretary Ishak Mastura said the new halal certification body was a good strategy for increasing local demand and capturing potential investments in the country.
           
Mastura stressed the Philippines needs a local halal market to promote global competitiveness.           

Ebrahim further noted that large food companies like San Miguel Foods, Swift Foods and Bounty Fresh have been asking for halal certification to cater to Brunei's demand for halal chicken.
           
The Davao-based Maharlika Agro-Marine Ventures intends to seek halal accreditation for its poultry business so it can eventually cater to both local and foreign demand.