Tunisia and Malaysia eye common ambition in halal market and trade

Tunisia and Malaysia are forging a common ambition to enhance their bilateral relationship, with a particular focus on the lucrative halal market and expanding trade exchanges. The shared goal signals a strategic alignment between the two nations.

During a meeting on June 17, 2026, Tunisia's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Migration, and Tunisians Abroad, Mr. Mohamed Ali Nafti, received Mr. Rizany Irwan Muhamad Mazalan. The Malaysian Ambassador presented his credentials, marking a formal step in strengthening diplomatic ties established in 1957.

Minister Nafti emphasized the need to bolster cooperation across various sectors of mutual interest. These include education, higher learning, technological industries, the automotive sector, and electronic components. He also acknowledged Malaysia's technical cooperation and capacity-building programs for Tunisian professionals in technology, digitalization, scientific research, and vocational training.

A key area of focus is the development of joint cooperation mechanisms, boosting trade, investment, and financial exchanges. Tunisia is particularly keen on increasing its exports to Malaysia, highlighting products such as olive oil, dates, and halal-certified goods. This push is significantly supported by the recognition of Tunisia's halal label, issued by INNORPI, by Malaysia's JAKIM since 2019.

The mutual recognition of halal certifications is a critical component of this burgeoning partnership. It facilitates smoother trade and opens up greater opportunities for Tunisian businesses in the Malaysian market, aligning with both countries' strategic economic objectives.