Market Overview: Malaysia has been recognized for its excellence in the Islamic economy, having ranked first in the world for nine consecutive years in the Global Islamic Economy Indicator. Malaysia’s success in the halal pharmaceutical space is part of its broader success in the Islamic economy, which includes halal food, finance, and lifestyle sectors.
Regulations: Although Halal certification in Malaysia is still voluntary, the country is a pioneer in establishing halal certification standards for pharmaceutical items and is committed to establishing a comprehensive halal ecosystem by 2030.
Market Size: Malaysia has a population of 34 million of which 61% are Muslim.
Market Potential: The Malaysian Halal pharmaceuticals market was valued at US $3.8 billion in 2018, rose to US $4.0 billion in 2021, and is expected to grow to US $4.8 billion by 2025.
Market Activity: Malaysian halal pharma exports dropped by 24% in 2020 due to COVID-19. However, there was a 1.25% increase in investment in halal pharmaceutical production parks. Halal Park is a community of manufacturing and service businesses located on common property to preserve the integrity of Halal products.
Important Activities in the Malaysian Halal Pharmaceutical Market:
Malaysia is ready to assist and collaborate with other countries to build a robust halal ecosystem and collectively tap into this economic opportunity.
Duopharma Biotech foresees collaboration opportunities in Qatar to advance Halal pharmaceuticals, emphasizing global integration and healthcare enhancement.
The CEO of HDC noted that by collaborating with the Islamic Development Bank, Malaysia could boost its halal pharmaceutical output to US$5.9 billion by 2030 and successfully enter the Middle Eastern market.
Taylor’s University’s programme teaches students to uphold halal practices in the cosmetic industry, preparing them for the expanding halal pharmaceutical sector.
Duopharma Biotech Berhad, a pioneer in halal pharmaceuticals, was named the 2022 Malaysian Company of the Year. They’ve made strides in biosimilars, notably with ERYSAA® for anemia in kidney disease. With high customer satisfaction and a diverse portfolio, they’re setting industry standards.
Under the guidance of Jakim and NPRA, Malaysia’s halal pharmaceutical industry has seen significant growth. Despite challenges in global expansion, it continues to innovate and thrive. Backed by key players and government initiatives, it positions itself as a leader in high-quality halal medicines.
Malaysia has topped the world in the Global Islamic Economy Indicator (GIEI), according to DinarStandard’s State of the Global Islamic Economy Report 2022.
The worldwide pioneer in the research and development of halal pharmaceuticals is expanding and improving its Halal portfolio to differentiate itself from competitors.
Duopharma Biotech Bhd has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding its portfolio diversity, including halal pharmaceuticals and plant-based products, and growing its product availability and affordability.
In December 2022, Duopharma Biotech Bhd made history by becoming the first pharmaceutical company to receive halal certification for an oncology product.
Pharmaniaga Berhad, a leading pharmaceutical group in Malaysia, has partnered with China's Suzhou Ronnsi Pharma Co., Ltd. to distribute a halal ovine (sheep) anticoagulant in Malaysia.
Pharmaniaga's subsidiary, Pharmaniaga Lifescience (PLS), will market, distribute and sell the product exclusively in Malaysia, and it will be halal certified by JAKIM.
Malaysia's VentureTECH, Duopharma Biotech Bhd, and PanGen Biotech from South Korea join hands to establish a commercial biosimilar production center in Malaysia.