The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region VI convened 80 stakeholders from Western Visayas’ coconut industry for a Regional Halal Orientation on August 29, 2024, at District21 Hotel.
The event aimed to educate local coconut farmers, processors, and food micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) about the burgeoning global Halal market, which is expected to reach $4 trillion by 2028.
This orientation, funded under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) and the Export and Development program, introduced attendees to Halal fundamentals, certification processes, and market opportunities specifically tailored for the coconut sector.
Ma. Dinda R. Tamayo, Provincial Director of DTI-Iloilo and Regional Industry Cluster Coordinator for Processed Fruits & Nuts – Halal Industry Development, highlighted the economic potential of entering the Halal market.
“I see opportunities to streamline Halal awareness and appreciation not just on the health side, but we also look at the economic potentials aligned with being certified producers and the huge Halal market that awaits,” Tamayo said.
“With this orientation, we open our doors to understanding the industry and take on the challenge, encouraging you to look closely beyond the rigors of certification.”
Participants engaged with a roster of expert speakers, including Ar-Chadee A. Bahjin, Senior Trade Industry Development Specialist from DTI Region IX, who explained Halal basics and the certification process.
Julius T. Nanas, Regional Technical Staff from the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Region VI, presented on agribusiness opportunities within the coconut industry.
Norjanah C. Barosa, Project Technical Assistant II from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region VI, discussed food safety and hygiene as prerequisites for Halal certification.
The orientation aligns with Iloilo City’s recent recognition as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, further boosting the region’s appeal to both local and international visitors through the integration of Halal culture and cuisine.
With the global Halal food industry expected to grow at an 11.25% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the next four years, the orientation represents a pivotal step in DTI Region VI’s strategy to help local businesses tap into this expanding market.
The event not only fosters the growth of the Halal industry in Western Visayas but also sets the stage for local MSMEs to explore new avenues for growth and significantly contribute to the region’s economic development.
Several coconut MSMEs expressed interest in pursuing Halal certification following the event, signaling a major milestone in localizing Halal industry development strategies within the region.
