Channel NewsAsia - 2 hours 13 minutes
ago
SINGAPORE: Over the past eight years, the number of
halal—certified businesses in Singapore has grown nearly four—fold
from 530 to over 2,000, and an increasing number of eateries are
catering to more adventurous palates.
Observers said there is still plenty of room for the industry to
grow as the spending power of the Muslim community is going up.
That is why more businesses are keen to tap into the global halal
food market that is estimated to be worth over S$760 billion.
One such player is Sakura International, which serves up a wide
range of cuisines that are all halal—certified.
It said the variety gives them the edge in a very competitive
industry.
Roger Soh, Operations Manager, Suki Group of Restaurants, said:
"Mirin, which is a kind of sweet wine, is often used in preparing
Japanese food. It is very difficult to get a replacement to meet
the halal requirements so we need to bring in more of these
ingredients."
The company, which is opening a fifth restaurant soon, said
sales have gone up by 70 percent since it turned halal in 2005.
Another business that has seen the benefits of
halal—certification is Qi Ji, which is known for its hawker—style
fare.
Even though Qi Ji still has its eye firmly on the Singapore
market for the time being, it said being certified will definitely
open doors if it moves overseas.
Alan Lau, Operations Director, Qi Ji, said: "In fact, we have
offers from overseas business partners for joint ventures in Dubai,
Indonesia and Brunei."
Dewi Hartaty Suratty, Head of Halal Certification Strategic
Unit, MUIS, said: "A lot of manufacturers want to export their
products to Muslim countries like the Middle East, Indonesia, as
well as Malaysia. These countries would require them to have a
halal certificate."
MUIS said for the past few years, it has seen a 10 percent
growth every year in the number of applicants for
halal—certification and it expects this growth to continue going
forward. — CNA/so