Philippine’s Mindanao to Become Southeast Asia’s Halal Industry Hub Amid Peace Efforts

The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is set to establish itself as a hub for the halal industry in Southeast Asia, with significant foreign investments from Muslim-majority countries, NIKKEI Asia reported yesterday.

Chief Minister Murad Ebrahim announced plans to partner with firms from Malaysia and the Middle East to enhance the halal poultry-processing sector, aiming to attract at least 100 companies to the region.

The BARMM, formed after a peace agreement with Muslim rebels, is also promoting Islamic banking through Al-Amanah Islamic Investment Bank to boost local asset management options. While security concerns persist, with over 10,000 former rebel fighters yet to be disarmed, Ebrahim expressed optimism that improved peace and order will draw more investors.

The region’s official launch was delayed to 2025 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but Ebrahim remains hopeful about achieving stability, stating that most areas are now peaceful. The initiative aims to create jobs and enhance exports, particularly to the Middle East.