The global halal market is a thriving industry, and Maldives has huge potential to tap into this market.

However, at current time, there is no testing facility for Halal certification and the authorities are required to outsource testing, which results in unnecessary delays and difficulties.

The proposed project seeks assistance in the following areas, towards establishment of a National Halal Laboratory, which will function as the one-stop centre to test export products to internationally accepted Halal standards. Project Scope

• Laboratory design and planning
• Development and establishment of halal analysis methods
• Halal management system and sub-contracting of halal analysis

As Maldives strives to explore new and diversified markets for its fishery exports, the relevance of such a facility becomes more significant. Furthermore, considering the growing Halal market globally and the strategic location of Maldives to the South and South East Asian markets coupled with the 100% Muslim nature of the country, Maldives has potential to become a regional hub as well.