Thailand is making a powerful statement at Gulfood 2026, cementing its position as a rising force in the global halal food industry. As one of the world’s premier food and beverage exhibitions unfolds in Dubai, Thailand’s pavilion highlights the nation’s ambitious journey to become the “Kitchen of the World” and Southeast Asia’s leading halal hub.
From Buddhist Nation to Halal Powerhouse
Despite being predominantly Buddhist, Thailand has strategically positioned itself as the fifth-largest halal food producer globally. With over 160,000 halal-certified products spanning 33,000 brands and 14,000 companies, the country demonstrates that expertise transcends religious demographics. This remarkable achievement stems from rigorous quality standards, advanced certification systems, and substantial government support.
Innovation Meets Tradition
Thailand’s halal offerings extend far beyond traditional products. The country showcases innovative creations including plant-based alternatives, functional foods, and fusion dishes that blend Thai culinary heritage with halal requirements. From aromatic tom yum prepared with certified ingredients to Thai-style biryani and satay, these products appeal to Muslim consumers worldwide while maintaining authentic Thai flavors.
Strategic Market Expansion
Thailand exported halal products worth over $7 billion to Organization of Islamic Cooperation countries in 2024, achieving impressive growth. The Halal Science Center at Chulalongkorn University supports this expansion through cutting-edge certification processes and quality assurance systems that ensure products meet strict Islamic dietary laws while maintaining food safety standards.
At Gulfood 2026, Thailand’s presence represents more than just trade—it symbolizes a nation leveraging its manufacturing excellence, culinary creativity, and commitment to quality standards to capture opportunities in the rapidly growing global halal market, projected to reach $3.1 trillion by 2027.
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