THAILAND EYES HALAL SECTOR TO DEEPEN ECONOMIC TIES WITH MALAYSIA — THAI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

KUALA LUMPUR, April 22 (Bernama) -- The Thai Chamber of Commerce views the halal sector as a promising platform for deeper economic collaboration between Thailand and Malaysia.

Its vice chairman Dr Visit Limlurcha said both countries are seeking to strengthen regional trade ties amid global uncertainties, with Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship and ongoing United States tariff concerns adding urgency to regional cooperation efforts.

"Malaysia’s globally recognised halal certification framework, coupled with Thailand’s abundance of agricultural raw materials, provides a strong foundation for synergistic partnerships in developing halal-certified products.

“By exchanging strengths and resources, both nations can support each other in producing high-value halal goods for regional and global markets,” he told reporters on the sidelines of the coming ProPak Asia 2025 roadshow presentation here today.

Known as the region's premier international trade event for food, drink, pharmaceutical processing and packaging technology, it will bring global manufacturers and industry leaders to Bangkok, Thailand, from June 11–14, 2025.

Stakeholders in their respective fields will exchange knowledge, experiences, and ideas to foster collaboration across diverse industry zones, Visit said.

This collaboration is in line with Thailand’s new policy direction to focus on “future food” — food products that are sustainable, health-oriented, and aligned with modern consumer demands, including the halal segment, Visit said.

On the US tariff issues, he stressed the need for regional economies to create stronger intra-ASEAN supply chains, ensuring that at least 50 to 60 per cent of the product value is sourced within the region to maintain access to major global markets.

"Joint efforts in innovation and product development between countries within ASEAN can enhance its competitive edge in the global industry,” he added.

-- BERNAMA