Our Programmes

Programme 1: SMIIC Standards-Based Certification Support

Standards • Technical Assistance • Capacity Building

This programme aims to reduce the financial, technical, and operational barriers that prevent eligible Halal SMEs from pursuing certification aligned with applicable SMIIC standards. Proposed areas of support include:

Tiered certification cost subsidies, subject to programme funding and eligibility.
Pre-assessment and certification-readiness guidance.
Technical assistance to strengthen compliance systems.
Training on relevant Halal standards for food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and other eligible product categories.
Connections with appropriate certification bodies operating under applicable accreditation and regulatory arrangements.

Certification decisions remain the responsibility of the relevant independent certification bodies.

Programme 2: Islamic Trade Finance Access

Working Capital • Investment • Business Expansion

The Alliance aims to facilitate relationships between Halal SMEs and Islamic financial institutions that offer financing solutions suitable for enterprise growth and international trade.

Proposed areas of facilitation include:

Murabahah-based trade finance for eligible import and export transactions.
Musharakah-based growth and expansion investment.
Ijarah-based equipment financing.
Connections with Islamic banks and trade finance providers.
Exploration of guarantee and risk-sharing arrangements with institutional partners.
Investor introductions through the Islamic Economy Investment Marketplace.

Financing is subject to each participating institution's assessment, product availability, applicable regulations, and Shariah governance.

Programme 3: Export & Market Access Facilitation

Business Directory • Buyer Matching • Export Readiness

This programme aims to connect Halal SMEs with commercial partners, distributors, investors, and export market opportunities.

Proposed activities include:

Development of a verified Halal SME Directory.
Buyer–seller introductions and business matchmaking.
Export readiness guidance and market intelligence.
Internationalisation tools and practical resources.
Market introductions across Middle Eastern and ASEAN trade corridors.
Coordination with logistics partners to help businesses prepare for export fulfilment.

The Charter sets an initial ambition of connecting 500 Halal SMEs with concrete export opportunities during the first year of the Export Programme.

Who Can Benefit?

The Alliance's programmes are intended to support eligible enterprises operating in the Halal economy, including:

Halal food and beverage producers.
Cosmetics and personal care manufacturers.
Pharmaceutical and health-related product enterprises, where eligible.
Modest fashion and lifestyle businesses.
Halal ingredient manufacturers and suppliers.
Halal product processors, packagers, and exporters.
Youth-led and women-owned Halal enterprises.
SMEs seeking to enter new domestic and international markets.

Eligibility, programme coverage, and access to financial support will depend on the specific programme criteria and participating institutional arrangements.

Halal SME Alliance

Advancing the global Halal economy through certification support, Islamic trade finance, and international market access.

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