FAMA ships first RM338,408 of halal agro-food to the Philippines, with total exports expected to reach RM4.15 million by next year
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has commenced its first shipment of halal agro-food products to the Philippines, marking a strategic expansion in the ASEAN market.
The Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA) exported two containers worth RM338,408 today, with total exports projected to reach RM4.15 million by next year.
FAMA chairman Aminuddin Zulkipli said this trade cooperation establishes the Philippines as Malaysia’s fourth-largest halal market, after China, India and Indonesia.
“The shipment is part of the Philippine Market Exploration Programme involving 20 containers to Manila and Marawi in phases,” he said at a ceremony in Bandar Baru Selayang.
The initial phase includes eight Agromas products such as coffee, instant noodles, margarine and fresh chicken.
Aminuddin highlighted Malaysia’s strength as a halal producer and the Philippines’ growing emphasis on halal certification as key drivers for the partnership.
The event also featured the signing of several Memorandums of Understanding between FAMA Corporation and five local ruminant industry companies.
These agreements cover food supply chain cooperation, FMCG distribution, cooking oil supply, ruminant industry expansion and smart logistics platform development.
FAMA Corporation CEO Shahrulnizam Ahmad said the programme demonstrates the local industry’s organised approach to penetrating new markets.
“The Philippines has given a clear signal that they want Malaysian food products,” he told a media conference.
He urged more local entrepreneurs to capitalise on the high demand and established market route.
The Philippine halal market is valued at an estimated USD 54.3 billion (RM 253.3 billion) in 2024 and is forecast to grow to USD 116.9 billion (RM 481.3 billion) by 2033.
Malaysia’s agrifood exports to the Philippines have risen consistently from RM 1.96 billion in 2022 to RM 2.37 billion in 2024.
Exports for January to August this year alone have reached RM 1.58 billion. – Bernama
