NEW Zealand will increase exports of certified halal meat to Malaysia following the signing of an enhanced Halal Implementation Arrangement (HIA) agreement between the two countries today.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said New Zealand remains committed to being a trusted partner for Malaysia by ensuring the continuity of its supply chains.
“We will use transparent regulations and resolve any issues quickly as they arise. Easier procedures, strong communication, and effective regulatory oversight are practical ways we will build mutual confidence,” he said during a speech at the Halal Diplomacy event here.
Luxon added that New Zealand will support the initiative through data-driven logistics and faster customs clearance for high-integrity operators under the recently signed Mutual Recognition of Customs framework.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi was also present.
Luxon explained that New Zealand will focus on raising halal standards and guarantees under the HIA, providing clearer and more consistent guidelines on registration, documentation, processing, labelling, and storage for halal industry participants.
The Prime Minister said New Zealand is committed to diversifying and expanding halal products through the HIA and leveraging the Malaysia-New Zealand trade framework, including the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) 2026, to open new markets for businesses in both countries.
Following today’s HIA note exchange, New Zealand expects greater resilience and reliability of its halal products.
The exchange was witnessed by Luxon and Ahmad Zahid, and carried out between Datuk Dr Sirajuddin Suhaimee, Director-General of the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim), and Mike Walsh, New Zealand High Commissioner to Malaysia.
In September 2024, both countries pledged to boost bilateral trade by 50 percent by 2030.
Ahmad Zahid welcomed New Zealand’s readiness to join the soon-to-be-established ASEAN Halal Council, highlighting Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening regional cooperation in the global halal industry.
“The halal industry transcends religious boundaries, reflecting universal values such as trust, transparency, and accountability that connect communities of diverse faiths and backgrounds.
“I am pleased to learn of New Zealand’s willingness to join the ASEAN Halal Council, a platform that will harmonise standards and strengthen global competitiveness.
“Halal is not only for Muslims; it represents the highest standards of quality, safety, and integrity across sectors including food and beverages, banking, insurance, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals,” he said.
Ahmad Zahid noted that the ASEAN region, with nearly 700 million people, represents a significant halal market, and Malaysia aims to serve as the halal gateway to ASEAN, with New Zealand as a trusted strategic partner. He also urged New Zealand to view Malaysia as a strategic partner not only in halal industry development but also in broader regional and global cooperation. - October 28, 2025
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