The Fiji Muslim League (FML) has formed a partnership with a Halal digital technology expert, aiming to enhance its Halal ecosystem and comply with international Halal standards. The collaboration with Malaysia-based Serunai Commerce is part of the Islamic Development Bank’s (IsDB) Reverse Linkage modality, with the goal of positioning Fiji as a key player in the global Halal economy, which is anticipated to reach a value of $5 trillion USD ($11 trillion FJD).
In a joint statement, both parties acknowledged the growing demand for Halal-certified products and services worldwide, noting that Fiji could experience significant economic growth and sustainable development within the Halal industry. This partnership is designed to bolster FML and local businesses’ capabilities in adhering to international Halal standards, facilitating new trade opportunities in the global market.
Through the Reverse Linkage modality, Serunai Commerce will introduce advanced digital technologies intended to greatly improve FML’s capacity to manage and oversee the Halal certification process. These innovative systems will streamline operations, enhance transparency, and ensure thorough traceability throughout the Halal supply chain.
As a result, FML will be able to better support local producers, helping them to comply with international Halal standards while positioning Fiji prominently in the global Halal market. This technological integration is expected to strengthen trust among consumers and stakeholders, thereby reinforcing the integrity of Halal-certified products from Fiji.
Aminuddin Mat Ariff, IsDB’s lead technical cooperation specialist, emphasized that knowledge-sharing among countries is crucial for unlocking development potential, and this project is a step towards promoting shared prosperity in the region. Haji Basheer Ahmed, the national president of FML, stated that the capacity building and implementation of digital systems would transform Halal compliance in Fiji, ensuring that Fijian products meet the highest international standards.
Lands and Mineral Resources Minister and Acting Minister for Agriculture, Filimoni Vosarogo, launched the initiative last week, highlighting that it opens new opportunities for Fijian farmers and producers to penetrate international markets where certification and traceability are critically important.