Philippines Earns $100M at Saudi Halal Expo

The Philippines secured over USD 100 million (approximately PHP 5.65 billion) in revenue at the Saudi Halal Expo, highlighting its growing status as a global Halal market player.

The “Halal-Friendly Philippines” campaign showcased the country’s commitment to building a sustainable Halal ecosystem and meeting international demand for certified products and services.

“This success reflects the Philippines’ strategic vision under Bagong Pilipinas to establish a strong and sustainable Halal ecosystem that meets global demand,” said Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque.

“It is also a testament to the collective efforts of our industries and the government to drive business growth, attract international investments, and create meaningful job opportunities for Filipinos and the global Halal community.”

The seafood and fish supply sector led the earnings with USD 35 million, securing agreements with over 200 supermarkets and restaurants in Saudi Arabia.

The pre-cooked, ready-to-eat food segment followed with USD 15 million in deals.

A one-year Halal-compliant logistics service contract worth USD 5 million was also finalized to ensure seamless distribution of Halal goods.

Halal-dedicated IT solutions generated USD 38 million in agreements aimed at improving marketing strategies, promotions, and certification processes.

Additionally, the Halal human resource sector secured contracts to create at least 100 new jobs annually, contributing USD 4.4 million in combined deals.

The DTI-Halal Development and Trade Office led the Philippine delegation of 64 members, including 12 Filipino companies and representatives from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), the Halal Export Board, and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Collaborations with the Philippine Embassy in Saudi Arabia, the Federation of Saudi Chambers, and the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah ensured the delegation’s success.

The mission also had strong support from the Department of Agriculture, BARMM, the Department of Budget and Management, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, and the Philippine Halal Export Board.