Pakistan’s halal food exports hold $50bn potential, experts say

Industry representatives estimate that Pakistan could earn $40-50 billion through halal exports if local producers move toward certified, higher-value goods and reach new overseas markets. At a Karachi media briefing, Pakistan Halal Forum 2026 organiser Asad Sajjad said the country has around 100,000 to 150,000 halal-product businesses, yet contributes under 1% of a global halal economy worth $3 trillion.

The forum is scheduled for December 2026 and is expected to draw participants from 35 countries, with an emphasis on investment and export support. International Halal Certification chief Mufti Zeeshan Abdul Aziz said more than 1,000 Pakistani firms hold international certification, but cited testing capacity, regulation, innovation and promotion as obstacles. He noted that halal standards now apply to areas including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, logistics, fashion and tourism, while IHC accreditation is accepted in GCC, Malaysia and Indonesia.