Thailand Strengthens Halal Trade Cooperation with OIC Countries

Ms. Suphajee Suthumpun, (ศุภจี สุธรรมพันธ์) Minister of Commerce, met with H.E. Yousef Hassan Khalawi, Secretary-General of the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development (ICCD), on 11 December 2025 at the Four Seasons Hotel, Bangkok, to discuss enhancing trade, investment, and halal industry cooperation between Thailand and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member countries. The meeting was attended by Ms. Sunanta Kangvalkulkij, (สุนันทา กังวาลกุลกิจ) Director-General of the Department of International Trade Promotion, and Mr. Nantapong Jiralertpong, (นันทพงษ์ จิระเลิศพงษ์) Director of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office.

Thailand’s strong commitment to economic relations with over 57 Muslim-majority countries, particularly in the Middle East, which serve as key export markets, energy sources, and strategic trade hubs.
Thailand, as a major global food producer, positions itself as a “Food Security Hub” for OIC countries, offering high-quality halal products. Currently, Thailand has more than 200,000 halal-certified products under the supervision of the Central Islamic Council of Thailand (CICOT). From January to October 2025, Thai halal food exports to OIC member countries reached USD 4.872 billion, within a global halal food market valued at approximately USD 1.4 trillion and a global Muslim population exceeding 2 billion. Key exported products include rice, sugar, canned seafood, vegetable and animal oils, cassava products, frozen and chilled chicken, fresh and processed fruits, wheat, non-alcoholic beverages, and ready-to-eat foods.

The Ministry of Commerce also pursues proactive policies to develop Thailand’s halal industry, including capacity-building programs in the five southern border provinces, trade promotion activities, business matching, and participation in international trade fairs such as THAIFEX – HORECA ASIA 2026 (11–13 March 2026) and THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA 2026 (26–30 May 2026). Thailand coordinates with the Thai Muslim Business Association (TMTA), representing the country in ICCD, to promote Thai halal products and services globally, covering trade, Muslim-friendly tourism, and GMHI standards.

Thailand is committed to serving as a global food security hub for the Muslim community and welcomes continued collaboration with ICCD to advance sustainable economic, trade, and development initiatives among OIC member countries.