Halal Science Center, Chulalongkorn University Advances Thailand-Saudi Cooperation in Halal Standards, Green Agriculture, and SME Development
Green Economy Marketing and Middle East Market Expansion Mission
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
7-11 February 2026
The Halal Science Center, Chulalongkorn University led a delegation of Thai entrepreneurs on an official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia under the Halal Agro-Business Development and Green Economy Integration Project for the Middle Eastern Market, Fiscal Year 2025. The mission aimed to enhance the capabilities of Thai entrepreneurs and establish strategic partnerships with key institutions across the Gulf region, covering halal standards, modern agricultural development, and expanded business opportunities for Thai enterprises.
In the area of halal standards, the delegation held discussions with the GCC Accreditation Center (GAC) to exchange information on accreditation systems and regional recognition mechanisms, which play a vital role in strengthening confidence in Thai halal products and services. The delegation also met with the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) and the Saudi Halal Center to explore the development of halal data infrastructure, traceability systems, and the application of Halal Blockchain technology to enhance transparency and alignment with international standards.
The delegation further engaged with the Ministry of Environment, Water & Agriculture (MEWA) to exchange knowledge on halal agricultural development under the Green Economy framework, sustainable resource management, and the application of technology in production processes. Academic cooperation was also discussed with King Saud University (KSU), alongside a study visit to the National Research and Development Center for Sustainable Agriculture (ESTIDAMA), a leading model of smart agriculture and advanced greenhouse systems designed to improve productivity while minimizing environmental impact.
In parallel, to promote market expansion and strengthen Thai SMEs, the Center led participating entrepreneurs in Business Matching sessions with importers, distributors, and investors in the Middle Eastern market. The delegation also visited Wadi Makkah Company, a key platform linking research, innovation, and startups to commercial application. This model provides valuable insights for advancing Thailand’s Halal Innovation and Halal Startup ecosystem to enhance global competitiveness.
This mission underscores the proactive role of the Halal Science Center, Chulalongkorn University in systematically integrating halal standards, technology, innovation, and green economy principles to support Thai entrepreneurs in entering the Middle Eastern market, while reinforcing international confidence in Thailand’s halal standards in a sustainable and enduring manner.
Read more on Chiang Mai Citylife
