The Halal Value Chain in Sri Lanka: Economic Contribution Amidst Institutional and Legal Controversies

Abstrak

This conceptual study addresses the complex and often contested issue of halal certification in Sri Lanka, a country where the certification process plays a significant role in the national export economy, particularly in the food and beverage sector. The article is aimed at analyzing the halal certification value chain by examining its legal, institutional, and socio-political dimensions, as well as its economic and social impacts. Employing a qualitative, conceptual approach, the study drew on secondary data and policy analysis to map the structure and challenges of the halal certification system. The findings revealed that despite contributing an estimated USD 1.7 billion in 2023 to Sri Lanka’s exports, the halal certification process remains legally ambiguous and institutionally fragmented, with the Halal Assessment Council (HAC) operating as a private entity without formal state oversight. The study concluded that a cohesive, legally grounded framework is urgently needed to ensure the stability, ethical integrity, and long-term development of the halal sector in Sri Lanka. However, the study is limited by the absence of empirical field data and comparative analysis with other national models; future research should incorporate stakeholder perspectives and international benchmarking to inform more inclusive and effective policy recommendations