The Halal Trade and Marketing Centre (HTMC), operating under Dubai Airport Freezone, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Korea International Trade Association (KITA), creating a structured pathway for Korean companies to enter halal markets across the UAE, Middle East, and Africa.
The agreement comes as the global Islamic economy reaches significant scale. Valued at US$2.60 trillion in 2024, the sector is projected to grow to US$3.56 trillion by 2029, with halal food, pharmaceuticals, modest fashion, tourism, and Islamic media among the fastest-expanding segments.
Under the MoU, HTMC and KITA will jointly develop advisory and mentoring programmes to prepare Korean businesses for halal market entry. These will cover certification requirements, accreditation systems, and regional regulatory frameworks, equipping companies with the knowledge needed to scale across the GCC and broader MENA region.
The two organisations will also facilitate structured business matchmaking, connecting Korean firms with buyers, importers, distributors, and commercial partners operating in target markets. Further cooperation will extend to engagement with halal ecosystem stakeholders including regulatory authorities, accreditation bodies, and industry associations.
Amna Lootah, Director-General of DAFZ, said the partnership aims to help Korean companies understand market requirements, access advisory support, and build meaningful connections with regional partners, reinforcing Dubai's role as a global hub for halal trade.
Philjae Park, President of KITA MENA HQ, described the MoU as an important step in expanding Korean companies' access to the region's halal economy, combining matchmaking, advisory services, and institutional engagement to support their growth in high-demand markets.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
