The Gambia has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening halal standards as a driver of economic growth, consumer protection, and global competitiveness, joining the international community in commemorating World Halal Standards Day 2026.
Delivering the national statement, Honourable Minister of Trade Mod K. Ceesay underscored the importance of the annual observance, coordinated by the Standards and Metrology Institute for Islamic Countries (SMIIC), an institution of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The day marks the adoption of the first OIC/SMIIC halal standards series on 17 May 2011 in Yaoundé, Cameroon.
Building Trust in a Digital Future
This year’s global theme, “Building Global Trust: Integrating Halal Standards for a Resilient and Digital Future”, reflects the growing role of halal systems beyond traditional compliance. Minister Ceesay highlighted that halal standards now embody values of trust, transparency, traceability, resilience, and innovation across industries ranging from food and cosmetics to pharmaceuticals, tourism, finance, and logistics.
“The halal economy is one of the fastest-growing sectors globally, offering immense opportunities for trade, industrialization, job creation, and export development,” he said, stressing that technology-driven halal systems are essential for improving traceability, reducing fraud, and enhancing certification processes.
National Progress and Global Alignment
Since joining SMIIC in 2012 through the Gambia Standards Bureau, the country has actively promoted halal standards at national, regional, and international levels. The Bureau has already adopted key frameworks such as OIC/SMIIC 1 for halal food requirements, OIC/SMIIC 2 for certification bodies, and OIC/SMIIC 3 for accreditation bodies — ensuring credibility and global recognition of The Gambia’s halal certification systems.
Authorities emphasized that aligning national systems with OIC/SMIIC standards will enhance competitiveness and support local enterprises in meeting international market demands.
Unlocking Economic Potential
For The Gambia, halal standards are increasingly seen as a tool to add value to agriculture, fisheries, food processing, tourism, and emerging industries. By embracing these standards, businesses can access regional and international halal markets, boost exports and creating jobs.
The Ministry pledged to continue working with religious authorities, private sector stakeholders, academia, consumer groups, and development partners to strengthen the national halal ecosystem.
A Call to Action
Minister Ceesay urged Gambian businesses, producers, processors, exporters, and service providers to fully embrace halal standards as instruments for quality assurance, competitiveness, and sustainable economic advancement.
“As we commemorate World Halal Standards Day 2026, we renew our national commitment to connecting faith, innovation, trade, and development — positioning The Gambia as an active participant in the expanding global halal economy,” he concluded.
