On February 21, 2025, the Commission for the Standards, Metrology, and Quality of Vietnam (STAMEQ) organized the February 2025 technical seminar with the theme “Pioneering Excellence with Halal Standards!”
Seminar Overview
The seminar brought together leading experts in the Halal field, including Acting Director-General (DG) of STAMEQ – Mr. Hà Minh Hiệp, Deputy DG – Mr. Trần Hậu Ngọc, Deputy Director in charge of the Vietnam Certification Centre (QUACERT) – Mr. Nguyễn Tuấn Anh, Director of the Vietnam Halal Certification Authority (HALCERT) – Mr. Ramlan Bin Osman, along with representatives from related units, and numerous researchers and experts both domestically and internationally. The event was held in both in-person and online formats, attracting significant interest from stakeholders.
New Approach to Halal
In his opening speech, Acting Chairman Hà Minh Hiệp emphasized that the traditional approach to Halal had not been highly effective. Since 2021, the Commission has adopted a new strategy, including in-depth research and exploration of the Halal market’s needs, connecting with leading experts worldwide to learn and apply the best practices.
Acting DG Hà Minh Hiệp sharing insights at the seminar.
The Commission has also established the Vietnam Halal Certification Authority (HALCERT) to strengthen the certification system and ensure quality according to international standards. “If we are determined to approach Halal with a learning mindset and build trust, we will go very far and remain sustainable,” Mr. Hà Minh Hiệp affirmed.
Potential of the Halal Market in Vietnam
According to Mr. Ramlan Bin Osman, Director of HALCERT, Vietnam is still primarily focused on the FnB (Food and Beverage) industry when it comes to Halal. However, there are still many untapped areas in cosmetics, fashion, tourism, and transportation. Vietnam has abundant raw materials such as coffee, rice, seafood, and spices, along with a GDP growth rate of 6-7% per year, indicating a significant potential in participating in the global Halal market.
Mr. Ramlan Bin Osman – Director of HALCERT, sharing a presentation.
In terms of services, Vietnam has been recognized as one of the leading international travel destinations for several consecutive years by reputable organizations, showing the strong potential for developing the hospitality industry, including Halal restaurants and catering services.
Requirements for Implementing Halal Standards
According to Mr. Ramlan Bin Osman, the prerequisite for Halal certification is ensuring food safety (guaranteeing the Thoyyiban aspect in Islamic culture), which can be demonstrated by obtaining certifications related to food safety such as HACCP, ISO, or FDA.
Delegates attending the seminar in person.
Additionally, to incorporate Halal into an organization’s system, the commitment of top leadership is crucial. According to Malaysia’s MS 1500 standard, the organization’s leadership must establish an internal Halal committee, which should include Muslim personnel, with the primary task of creating Halal policies, conducting internal Halal assessments, and practicing Halal within the organization.
The seminar also featured lively discussions, evaluating challenges and proposing directions for Halal development at the Commission in particular and in Vietnam in general.
Hồng Quân – Vietnam Halal Certification Authority (HALCERT)
Vietnam Certification Centre (QUACERT)
