Indonesia and Thailand have joined the Saudi-led Global Halal Mark alliance, a major step to unify halal certification worldwide. Announced at the Makkah Halal Forum on February 15, 2026, this initiative by the Saudi Halal Center now includes four countries, with plans to reach 10 by year-end. The Global Halal Mark alliance aims to standardize halal labels, boosting credibility and easing cross-border trade. Agreements with Indonesia and Thailand were signed recently, enabling mutual recognition of certifications. Saudi Halal Center CEO Abdulaziz Al-Rushodi highlighted its role in harmonizing global standards. A companion Global Halal Hub, a digital platform, will streamline certifications and trade processes.
The global halal market hit $7 trillion in 2025, with Saudi Arabia leading investments at SR5.5 billion ($1.4 billion). Indonesia ranks fifth with SR1.5 billion, while Thailand eyes growth via events like Mega Halal Bangkok 2026. The alliance supports local industries; Saudi signed an MoU with its Food Manufacturers Association to certify thousands of factories for exports.
The forum also launched the Halal Academy with Islamic University of Madinah for training and ecosystem development. This builds on Saudi Halal Center’s work since 2018 under the Food and Drug Authority, issuing Shariah-compliant marks. For Indonesia and Thailand, largest Muslim-majority nations, it opens vast markets in food, cosmetics, pharma, and tourism.
Unified marks cut verification costs, spur innovation, and empower SMEs. As halal demand surges—projected 8-10% annual growth—this alliance positions members as leaders in a trillion-dollar ecosystem.
FAQs [Frequently Asked Questions]
Q1: What is the Global Halal Mark alliance?
A Saudi Halal Center initiative to unify global halal labels for credibility, trade ease; now four countries, targeting 10 by 2026 end.
Q2: Which countries recently joined?
Indonesia and Thailand signed agreements at Makkah Halal Forum, making four total members in the alliance.
Q3: What is the global halal market size?
Estimated at $7 trillion in 2025; Saudi invests SR5.5B top, Indonesia SR1.5B fifth.
Q4: What other projects were announced?
Halal Academy with Islamic University of Madinah for training; Global Halal Hub digital platform for certifications.