HCM City (VNA) – Opportunities to boost Vietnamese exports to the vast global Halal market, particularly Indonesia, the biggest one with over 280 million people, were in focus at a seminar held in Ho Chi Minh City on April 28.

The event was co-organised by the municipal Investment and Trade Promotion Centre (ITPC) and the Consulate General of Indonesia in the southern economic hub.

Addressing the seminar, ITPC Director Tran Phu Lu noted that in the face of global economic uncertainties, businesses must innovate and pivot towards emerging markets such as the Halal sector to drive export growth, while proactively addressing risks of contraction in traditional markets.

He highlighted that Vietnam and Indonesia have continually strengthened and expanded bilateral cooperation, forging a solid and mutually beneficial economic partnership aimed at sustainable development.

According to data from the Department of Customs, bilateral trade reached 4.2 billion USD in the first quarter, up 17% year-on-year. Vietnam’s exports to Indonesia, valued at 1.4 billion USD, focused on key products such as coffee, plastic materials, steel, garment-textile, and mobile phones and components.

Lu noted that Vietnamese enterprises see opportunities to boost exports of Halal-certified products to Indonesia. However, stringent Halal standards and complex certification systems remain significant challenges for those looking to penetrate this market.

Indonesian Consul General in HCM City Agustaviano Sofjan said the elevation of Vietnam–Indonesia relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership on March 10 lays a foundation for expanding cooperation across multiple sectors, with the Halal industry seen as a key pillar.

Indonesia stands ready to share its experience on Halal standards and looks forward to working with Vietnam across a range of fields, the diplomat stated.

Participating experts encouraged both countries to enhance information exchange and technical collaboration in Halal certification and standardisation. They also called for greater joint ventures and investment in Halal-related industries, including Halal food processing, cosmetics, and tourism. Businesses from both sides were urged to participate actively in specialised trade fairs and business forums to foster market connections and customer engagement.

The global Halal mar꧅ket, 🌸encompassing food and beverages as well as other sectors, is forecast to reach a total value of 10 trillion USD by 2030./.