Pakistani council: Lack of HS codes for global halal trade is major obstacle

The lack of HS (Harmonized System) codes for halal products is a serious obstacle to their global trade, Asad Sajjad, CEO of Pakistan's Halal Development Council, said at the Halal Business and Tourism Forum (AZHAB Forum) held in Baku, Report informs.

"The HS codes developed by the World Customs Organization are an international commodity classification system used in more than 200 countries. Approximately 98% of world trade is conducted using these codes. However, HS codes for halal products have not yet been developed, which creates significant problems. The absence of codes hinders obtaining accurate information and statistics on halal goods, which complicates control over import-export operations, increases delays at customs, and raises costs. This also reduces consumer confidence and increases the risk of fraud," said Asad Sajjad.

He emphasized the importance of creating a working group that will develop halal subcategories and incorporate them into the HS system. This will require cooperation with halal certification bodies and the assignment of specific codes for both food and non-food products. Additionally, Sajjad noted other problems facing halal trade at the global level. These include differences in halal certification standards, lack of raw materials, absence of trained personnel, and the impossibility of obtaining certificates from non-Muslim certification bodies.

He stressed that solving these problems is crucial for the development of the halal industry and strengthening its position in global markets.