The Fiji Muslim League (FML) has partnered with a specialist in Halal digital technology to enhance its Halal ecosystem and adhere to international Halal standards. This collaboration, with Malaysia’s Serunai Commerce, is part of the Islamic Development Bank’s (IsDB) Reserve Linkage program and aims to position Fiji as a significant player in the global Halal economy, which is projected to reach a value of $5 trillion.
The joint statement from both parties highlighted the growing demand for Halal-certified products and services worldwide, emphasizing that Fiji stands to gain from increased economic growth and sustainable development within the Halal sector. The partnership is expected to bolster FML and local businesses’ capabilities to align with international Halal standards, thereby creating new trade opportunities in the global Halal market.
Serunai Commerce will provide advanced digital technologies that will improve FML’s ability to manage and oversee the Halal certification process. These innovations are designed to streamline operations, enhance transparency, and ensure thorough traceability throughout the Halal supply chain. Consequently, FML will be better positioned to assist local producers in complying with international Halal standards, elevating Fiji’s status in the global Halal arena.
Aminuddin Mat Ariff, the IsDB’s lead technical cooperation specialist, emphasized the importance of knowledge-sharing among countries to unlock developmental potential and promote shared prosperity in the region. FML’s national president, Haji Basheer Ahmed, stated that the new digital systems would revolutionize 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, inaugurated the initiative last week, noting that it would provide new opportunities for Fijian farmers and producers to access international markets where certification and traceability are crucial.