
HDC, Muslim Friendly Watch partner to boost Malaysia-China halal trade
The collaboration, which takes effect immediately, is designed to deepen halal business ties and enhance digital connectivity between the two nations.
HDC chief executive officer Hairol Ariffein Sahari said the partnership aims to support Malaysian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in breaking into China's expanding halal market by leveraging digital platforms, access to financing, and e-commerce solutions.
"Together with MFW, the collaboration will support Malaysian small and medium enterprises entering China's halal market through access to digital ecosystems, financing, and e-commerce platforms," he said.
China has emerged as a major player in the global halal industry, driven by a Muslim population exceeding 20 million and growing interest among non-Muslim consumers.
In 2024, China was one of the top two destinations for Malaysia's halal exports, reaching RM7.04 billion in food and beverages, palm oil derivatives, industrial chemicals, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
China's halal market is further expanding due to its Belt and Road Initiative, as well as halal industrial zones in regions like Ningxia and Xinjiang with increasing cross-border e-commerce activity.
MFW president Noorman Kamsani added this collaboration enables businesses to transition more confidently towards Halal certification with a framework signifying consumer expectations and industry standards.
Through this partnership, HDC and MFW will work on stakeholder engagement, awareness programmes, and the Muslim Choice System to enhance trust and transparency in halal practices.
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