October 2025

A Market Too Big to Ignore

The global Halaal economy is valued at over USD 2 trillion annually and expanding steadily as two billion Muslim consumers worldwide demand goods and services that align with their faith.

From food and beverages to pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, logistics, hospitality, and even finance, the Halaal stamp of approval has become a mark of quality, safety, and trust.

For South African businesses, this presents an immense opportunity. Our country’s diverse Muslim community, coupled with our growing role in supplying Halaal products to Africa, the Middle East, Europe, Southeast Asia and the Far East, places us in a unique position to compete and thrive.

 The Role of Certification

Certification ensures that products and processes align with Sharīʿah law, the Islamic ethical framework, while also meeting international benchmarks for hygiene, safety, and quality.

 Certification is not only a religious service. It is also a business facilitator:

·                  For manufacturers: It opens access to new markets.

·                  For retailers: It provides assurance to diverse consumer bases.

·                  For exporters: It removes trade barriers in Muslim-majority countries.

·                  For consumers: It builds trust and loyalty.

SANHA has played a leading role for almost three decades, earning recognition locally and internationally as a certifier committed to integrity, transparency, and global cooperation.

 Business and Certification: Natural Allies

 Synergy with business chambers: By partnering with industry bodies, certification authorities like SANHA can provide clearer pathways for businesses to engage the Halaal economy.

Innovation through collaboration: From blockchain traceability to smart auditing systems, there is room for businesses and certifiers to jointly develop solutions that enhance trust and reduce costs.

Shared advocacy: A united front between certifiers and Muslim business communities can strengthen South Africa’s voice in global standard-setting forums, ensuring our exporters are not disadvantaged by fragmented regulations abroad. 

Lessons from the Global Market

Across the Muslim world, governments have recognised the potential of the Halaal economy and are moving fast to secure their share. Malaysia has positioned itself as a global Halaal hub, the UAE is aligning its logistics and hospitality industries with Halaal standards, and Indonesia is rapidly scaling its domestic Halaal industries.

South Africa cannot afford to lag behind. By building synergy with businesses, we can amplify our impact and attract global partnerships.

The Way Forward: From Compliance to Growth

For businesses, Halaal certification should be seen as a growth strategy.

 Export-readiness: A SANHA certificate carries weight in international markets, providing instant credibility with buyers.

Consumer confidence: Muslim and non-Muslim consumers alike are increasingly associating Halaal with quality, safety, and ethical sourcing.

 Sector expansion: The demand for Halaal products is no longer limited to food. Pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, fashion, and tourism all stand to benefit

.

For SANHA, the mission is clear – certification is a gateway to opportunity.

Building Trust, Unlocking Trade

The Halaal economy is not only about faith. It is about trust, integrity, and global trade potential. The future belongs to those who recognise the power of collaboration. By bringing together Halaal certifiers, Muslim business communities, and broader industry stakeholders, South Africa can position itself as a leading player in the global Halaal economy — creating jobs, driving exports, and fostering shared prosperity.

Call To Action – The H20 World Halal Summit & Exhibition 

 Saturday, 15th and Sunday, 16th November 2025 in Johannesburg

A high-level forum, presence of global Halaal authorities and policy makers, with panel discussions on strategic developments, mutual recognition agreements, and the future of Halaal standards and technology have been lined up. A further development will be an exhibition featuring local and international Halaal certified brands, exporters, trade agencies, and SMMEs and services from across the globe