K-beef targets global halal market through exports to Malaysia

Korean beef is making its entry into the global halal food market, starting with Malaysia.

South Korean Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs has announced that Minister Chung Hwang-keun will be visiting Malaysia and Indonesia from May 11~16 to discuss collaborative efforts in K-food exports, including Korean beef. During his visit to Malaysia, the first contract for halal Korean beef exports will be signed.

Halal food refers to food that is permissible under Islamic law and can be consumed by Muslims. The halal market, which is widespread across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa, is a significant market with a consumer base of about 1.9 billion people.

Since 2016, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food has been engaging in negotiations with the Malaysian government regarding beef export inspections. In 2020, both parties reached an agreement on import hygiene standards.

In 2022, a domestic slaughterhouse was converted into a dedicated halal slaughterhouse, and in February 2023, it successfully passed on-site inspections conducted by Malaysian authorities, paving the way for exports.

The export destinations for Korean beef have expanded to include not only Hong Kong, Macau and Cambodia but also Malaysia, totaling four countries.

With the successful export to Malaysia and the completion of inspection negotiations, it is anticipated that the process for exporting to other Muslim countries such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will also gain momentum, pending final approval from their respective inspection authorities.

Write to Jung-hwan Hwang at jung@hankyung.com