Indonesia is actively exploring the potential of halal products in New Zealand, leveraging the diplomatic relations between the two countries. According to Masduki Baidlowi, spokesperson for the Vice President, half of the trade value between Indonesia and New Zealand involves halal-related transactions.
The interaction highlights the significance of halal trade in the diplomatic and economic exchanges between Indonesia and New Zealand, emphasizing the growth of the Muslim community in New Zealand and the demand for halal-certified products.
Vice President Ma’ruf Amin’s visit to New Zealand from February 25 to March 2, 2024, aims to further halal diplomacy worldwide, meeting key officials to discuss enhancements in halal trade.
Indonesia’s halal trade with New Zealand includes agricultural exports and beef, highlighting the potential for expanding the range of halal products exchanged between the two countries.
The visit underscores Indonesia’s consistent efforts to be a significant part of the global halal market, following successful diplomatic missions in Europe and now in New Zealand.
Riyanto Sofyan, Chairman of the Indonesian Halal Tourism Association, calls for more aggressive promotion to establish Indonesia as the world’s leading halal tourism destination, drawing parallels with Malaysia’s successful marketing strategies.
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Efficient marketing and development strategies have previously proven successful, as seen in Lombok, NTB, receiving the best halal destination award at the World Halal Travel Summit 2015, significantly benefiting the local economy.
Indonesia’s push to dominate the halal market in New Zealand and its ambitions to become the top halal tourism destination globally could mean more diverse and accessible halal-certified products and services. This initiative not only showcases Indonesia’s commitment to expanding its halal industry but also enhances cultural and economic ties with New Zealand, offering a richer, more inclusive travel and trade experience.
Indonesia leverages its diplomatic relations with New Zealand to tap into the halal market, aiming to bolster trade and position itself as a global leader in halal tourism. The efforts underscore the growing significance of halal certification and the demand for halal products, promising broader options for consumers and tourists from Singapore and beyond.
Source: Harian Jogja, Antara News (2024)
