15 foundation for sustainable growth and longterm global competitiveness.
March-April. 2026 | @ Halal
GRAND HALAL BANGKOK 2026
15 foundation for sustainable growth and longterm global competitiveness.
Additionally, in a significant milestone for the global halal industry, the Central Islamic Council of Thailand( CICOT) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding( MOU) with the Saudi Halal Centre, establishing a strategic partnership aimed at advancing a new global framework for halal standards under the vision of“ Digital Halal – Global Standard.”
The signing ceremony marks a historic step in strengthening international halal cooperation and enhancing Thailand’ s position as a key player in the global Muslim market.
The agreement was signed on behalf of CICOT by Lt Gen Surin Palare, alongside Dr Ali Khan( secretary-general of the central committee), and Dr Muhammad Amin Jahanouk( director of the Halal Standards Institute). Representing Saudi Arabia was Ir Abdul Aziz Al Rashudi( chief executive officer of the Saudi Halal Centre).
The occasion was attended by distinguished leaders from Saudi Arabia, underscoring the significance of this collaboration at both the national and global levels.
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS
Among the notable witnesses were Prince Majid Abdullah Al Qosobey( Minister of Commerce), Dr Sheikh Saad Nasir Al Shasari( Privy Council Member), D. Saad Usman Al Ghosibi( Governor of the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organisation( SASO), and Dr Hisham Saad Al Yat-e( Governor of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority).
This strategic partnership goes beyond a conventional bilateral agreement. It establishes the foundation for a next-generation halal ecosystem, built upon three key pillars-
The first pillar focuses on digital innovation, with the development of an integrated digital halal platform and QR code system designed to enhance global transparency, traceability, and consumer confidence.
The second pillar centres on global recognition, enabling mutual recognition of halal standards and certification marks. This alignment is expected to facilitate seamless access for halal-certified products into international Muslim markets, particularly within the Gulf Cooperation Council( GCC) region.
The third pillar emphasises human capital development through the coestablishment of a Global Halal Academy
Surin Palare
to cultivate highly skilled professionals and experts to support the evolving needs of the global halal industry.
This landmark MOU represents more than a diplomatic achievement- it serves as a strategic gateway for Thai businesses to expand internationally. With the alignment of standards between CICOT and leading Saudi regulatory bodies such as SFDA and SASO, Thai halal-certified products are expected to gain more direct and efficient access to Middle Eastern and global Muslim markets.
The harmonisation of certification processes will significantly reduce duplication in audits and compliance procedures, enabling exporters to streamline operations, reduce time-to-market, and enhance competitiveness.
This collaboration underscores Thailand’ s commitment to strengthening its halal ecosystem through innovation, international cooperation, and regulatory alignment. By bridging Southeast Asia and the Middle East through trusted halal standards, the CICOT – Saudi Halal Centre partnership is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of global halal trade.
GLOBAL HALAL ALIGNMENT: Thailand and Saudi Arabia seal strategic deal to advance global halal ecosystem and industry competitiveness.
Grand Halal Bangkok 2026 arrives at a pivotal moment for the industry. As demand for halal-certified goods expands beyond traditional markets into mainstream global consumption, the need for reliable sourcing destinations has never been greater. Bangkok now offers that destination— combining quality, innovation, and connectivity in one dynamic marketplace.
With limited availability for the sponsored buyer program, early participation is strongly encouraged. For global buyers seeking to expand their sourcing networks and secure competitive advantages, Grand Halal Bangkok 2026 is not just an event- it is an opportunity to shape the future of halal trade.-