Global Halal Meat Market Expansion Amid Product and Destination Diversification

The global halal meat market is expanding significantly, though it is still considered a niche segment compared to the conventional meat industry. According to Research and Markets, a global provider of market research reports, the global halal market was valued at USD 2.71 trillion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 5.91 trillion by 2033, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.92%. This growth is attributed to rising demand from the growing Muslim population, which is estimated at over 2 billion in 2025, an increase from 1.6 billion in 2010. Growing interest from non-Muslim consumers who perceive halal meat as of high-quality compared to conventional products, ethically produced, and subject to stricter hygiene standards also drive the positive projections.

Halal certification plays a crucial role in ensuring consumer trust. Some of the key certification bodies include the World Halal Food Council (WHFC), the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Accreditation Center (GAC), the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), Indonesia’s Halal Product Assurance Quality Agency (BPJPH), the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore, and the Islamic Services of America (ISA). Many meat-exporting nations obtain these certifications to enhance their appeal in halal markets. Additionally, governments and exporters are leveraging global trade fairs, such as the Gulfood 2025 event, which ran from February 17 to February 19 in Dubai, to promote their halal-certified meat products.

Figure 1: Key Halal Certification Bodies

Gulfood 2025 as a Global Hub for Halal Meat Trade and Market Expansion

At Gulfood 2025, Argentina, Brazil, and Australia, three of the world's top meat exporters, were among the key players actively marketing their halal meat products. The Argentine Beef Promotion Institute (IPCVA) leveraged the event to showcase its beef to buyers from the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Africa, emphasizing its efforts to diversify exports beyond China. The IPCVA hosted tastings, set up a pavilion featuring ten major Argentine exporters, and engaged in high-level discussions with United Arab Emirates (UAE) officials to strengthen trade relations.

Figure 2: Gulfood 2025

Similarly, Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (Mapa) reinforced its meat presence in the Arab market by participating in Gulfood 2025 with seven themed pavilions highlighting beef, poultry, and superfoods. Technical visits to leading Brazilian meat processors, such as BRF and Seara Brasil, demonstrated Brazil’s capability to meet the Middle East’s growing demand for halal meat. Key bilateral meetings addressed trade issues, including export certifications, the Mercosur-UAE Free Trade Agreement, and the reopening of suspended establishments.

Australia’s Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA), through its Aussie Beef and Lamb (ABL) brand, reaffirmed its commitment to the halal meat market by showcasing premium halal-certified beef, lamb, goat, and veal. With 100% of Australian red meat exports to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region certified halal under the Australian Government Authorised Halal Program, ABL emphasized quality, traceability, and sustainability. The brand’s presence at Gulfood 2025 provided an opportunity to strengthen trade relations and reinforce Australia’s position as a trusted supplier of high-quality halal meat.

Key Opportunities and Trade Considerations

Global meat exporters need to diversify their product export destinations and offerings to include halal meat markets to capitalize on their growing global demand. Given current market conditions, such as potential United States (US) tariff hikes despite beef production challenges and reduced Chinese demand, exporters should actively explore high-potential markets in Southeast Asia, Africa, and non-Muslim-majority regions in Europe, where halal meat consumption is increasing. Reducing dependence on the US and China will be crucial for sustaining long-term growth, especially for countries like Argentina, Brazil, and Australia. Key exporting countries like Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay, should leverage the Mercosur-GCC trade negotiations, the European Union (EU) market access, and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) halal trade frameworks to navigate potential tariff barriers and maintain competitive pricing.

Halal meat consumption surges during major Islamic festivals, particularly Ramadan, which runs from March 1 to March 31 in 2025. To maximize sales during this peak demand period, stakeholders should strengthen partnerships with distributors and retailers to enhance market penetration and ensure supply chain efficiency. This is exemplified by Morocco’s strategic move to secure meat imports ahead of Ramadan. According to a February 19 report by Morocco’s Diplomatic News, a Moroccan delegation visited Australia to negotiate the import of 100,000 sheep to address domestic livestock shortages. Morocco has also signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Australian Livestock Exporters Council (ALEC) to facilitate future imports of cattle and goats.

In conclusion, the global halal market presents significant growth opportunities for meat exporters. To remain competitive, exporters need to participate in major trade fairs such as Gulfood 2025, SIAL Paris, and the China International Import Expo, which serve as essential platforms for building business partnerships and expanding halal meat exports. Additionally, brands should diversify their product offerings beyond fresh meat by incorporating ready-to-eat meals, processed halal foods, and premium organic halal meat to cater to evolving consumer preferences. Leveraging digital platforms, including e-commerce marketplaces and social media influencers, will be crucial in reaching younger, and busy-lifestyle consumers who actively seek certified halal products online.