China Exports $32.5 Billion in Halal Goods to OIC

Chinese manufacturers are aggressively targeting the global halal market, exporting food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and fashion to Muslim-majority countries. This strategic shift aims to offset weak domestic demand and increasing trade barriers in Western markets. In 2023, China exported $32.5 billion in halal-related goods to the 57 member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, establishing itself as the group's largest supplier.

While the Government of China leverages industrial scale and low costs to produce items ranging from frozen meat to sports hijabs, exporters struggle with religious credibility. The industry currently lacks a unified national halal-certification standard, which complicates market entry and consumer trust.

This economic expansion continues despite international condemnation of Beijing for the mass detention and repression of Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities in the Xinjiang region. The Chinese government denies these allegations, characterizing the facilities as vocational centers and stating that its policies were intended to fight terrorism and extremism.