Introduction: A New Era for ASEAN-Gulf Economic Partnerships

In a rapidly globalizing world, the demand for secure, transparent, and inclusive trade systems is at an all-time high. President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. (PBBM) recently called on the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states to deepen collaboration, particularly in digital and halal trade. This move, reported by the Philippine News Agency, is set to transform not only regional economies but also the lives of millions with specific dietary needs and food sensitivities.

Why Digital and Halal Trade Matter in 2025

The intersection of digital transformation and halal trade is more relevant than ever. Digital trade streamlines cross-border transactions, enhances transparency, and supports traceability—critical for halal certification and for consumers with food allergies or dietary restrictions. Halal trade, on the other hand, is no longer just about religious compliance; it is a global standard for purity, safety, and ethical sourcing, appealing to a wider audience including those with food sensitivities and specific dietary preferences.

According to a 2023 research on the global halal market, the halal food sector is projected to reach USD 3 trillion by 2025, driven by both Muslim and non-Muslim consumers seeking trustworthy food options.

PBBM’s Vision: ASEAN-Gulf Synergy in the Digital Age

During the recent ASEAN-GCC Summit, President Marcos emphasized the need for both regions to leverage digital technologies and harmonize halal standards. He highlighted that such collaboration would:

• Boost economic growth by opening new markets and reducing trade barriers.
• Ensure food safety and transparency for consumers with allergies, intolerances, or lifestyle-driven dietary choices.
• Promote innovation through digital platforms that facilitate traceability, certification, and consumer trust.

As reported by the Philippine News Agency, PBBM stated, “We must harness digital transformation to facilitate seamless trade and ensure that halal products meet the highest international standards.”

The Expanding Halal Market: Beyond Religion

The halal market is experiencing unprecedented growth, not only among Muslim consumers but also among those with food sensitivities, allergies, and ethical preferences. Recent studies, such as the 2023 Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems report, reveal that consumers increasingly associate halal certification with safety, cleanliness, and transparency.

For people with food allergies or intolerances—such as gluten, lactose, or nut allergies—halal certification offers an additional layer of assurance. Halal processes require strict segregation, cleanliness, and traceability, reducing the risk of cross-contamination.

Digital Trade: The Backbone of Modern Food Safety

Digital trade platforms are revolutionizing how food products are sourced, certified, and delivered. Blockchain technology, for instance, enables end-to-end traceability, allowing consumers to verify the origins and certifications of their food. This is especially vital for individuals with dietary restrictions, as highlighted in the 2024 MDPI Foods journal, which emphasizes the role of digital tools in ensuring allergen-free supply chains.

President Marcos’s call for ASEAN-Gulf digital collaboration aligns with these trends, advocating for interoperable systems that can authenticate halal status and other dietary claims across borders.

Food Sensitivities and Dietary Preferences: A Growing Global Concern

According to the World Allergy Organization, food allergies affect up to 10% of the global population, with prevalence rising annually. In Southeast Asia and the Gulf, lactose intolerance, gluten sensitivity, and nut allergies are increasingly reported, making transparent labeling and certification crucial.

The rise in veganism, vegetarianism, and flexitarian diets further fuels the demand for clear, reliable food information. Halal certification, combined with digital transparency, ensures that consumers can make informed choices that align with their health needs and ethical values.

How Food Scan Genius and Yuka Empower Consumers

In this evolving landscape, digital tools such as Food Scan Genius and Yuka are becoming indispensable for consumers with food sensitivities or specific dietary preferences.

• Food Scan Genius: This app enables users to scan product barcodes and instantly access detailed information about allergens, halal status, and nutritional content. Its AI-powered database is regularly updated to reflect the latest certifications and recalls, making it a trusted companion for those with allergies or dietary restrictions.
• Yuka: Widely used in Europe and Asia, Yuka analyzes food products for additives, allergens, and health impact. It provides a clear rating system, helping users avoid products that may trigger sensitivities or do not meet their dietary standards.

Both apps exemplify how digital innovation, supported by ASEAN-Gulf cooperation, can empower consumers to make safer, healthier choices. As digital trade expands, integrating such tools with official halal and allergen databases will further enhance food safety and transparency.

ASEAN-Gulf Collaboration: Opportunities and Challenges

The potential for ASEAN and Gulf states to lead in digital and halal trade is immense. By harmonizing standards and leveraging technology, these regions can:

• Facilitate smoother cross-border trade for halal and allergen-free products.
• Support SMEs and startups in accessing new markets via digital platforms.
• Enhance consumer trust through transparent certification and traceability.
• Address the unique dietary needs of diverse populations, including expatriates and tourists.

However, challenges remain. Differences in halal certification, regulatory frameworks, and digital infrastructure can impede seamless collaboration. Ongoing dialogue, capacity building, and investment in digital systems are essential to overcome these barriers.

Recent Research: The Impact of Digital Halal Trade on Food Safety

A 2024 ScienceDirect study highlights that blockchain-enabled halal certification reduces fraud and enhances consumer confidence. The research found that digital traceability systems decreased incidents of mislabeling and allergen contamination by 30% in pilot projects across Southeast Asia.

Similarly, the 2023 Taylor & Francis report on food sensitivities emphasizes that digital platforms, when integrated with official certification bodies, significantly improve safety for individuals with allergies and intolerances.

Policy Recommendations for 2025 and Beyond

To fully realize the benefits of expanded digital and halal trade, ASEAN and Gulf states should consider the following policy actions:

1. Standardize Halal and Allergen Certification: Develop unified standards that are recognized across both regions, reducing confusion and trade barriers.
2. Invest in Digital Infrastructure: Support the development of interoperable platforms for certification, traceability, and consumer engagement.
3. Promote Consumer Education: Partner with app developers like Food Scan Genius and Yuka to raise awareness about food safety and dietary choices.
4. Encourage Research and Innovation: Fund studies and pilot projects that explore the intersection of digital trade, halal certification, and food sensitivities.
5. Facilitate SME Participation: Provide resources and training for small businesses to access digital trade platforms and comply with international standards.

Conclusion: A Safer, More Inclusive Future for Food Trade

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for expanded ASEAN-Gulf collaboration on digital and halal trade is more than a diplomatic initiative—it is a blueprint for a safer, more inclusive, and transparent global food system. By embracing digital transformation and harmonizing standards, these regions can lead the way in protecting consumers with food sensitivities and dietary preferences.

As digital tools like Food Scan Genius and Yuka become integral to daily life, the synergy between technology, policy, and consumer empowerment will define the future of food trade. The Philippines, together with its ASEAN and Gulf partners, stands at the forefront of this exciting evolution.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is halal trade?

Halal trade refers to the production, certification, and distribution of goods and services that comply with Islamic dietary laws, emphasizing purity, safety, and ethical sourcing.

How does digital trade improve food safety?

Digital trade platforms enhance traceability, transparency, and certification, reducing the risk of fraud, mislabeling, and allergen contamination.

Are halal products suitable for people with food allergies?

While halal certification focuses on religious compliance, its strict standards often reduce cross-contamination risks, making it beneficial for individuals with certain food sensitivities. Always check for specific allergen information.

How do apps like Food Scan Genius and Yuka help consumers?

These apps provide instant access to product information, including allergen content, halal status, and nutritional value, empowering consumers to make informed choices.