HALAL INDUSTRY CERTIFICATION ASPECTS: CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK BASED ON THE THEMATIC STUDY OF THE QUR’AN

Abstract

The article aims to analyze the different aspects of the halal certification process based on the thematic study of the Quran’s verses containing the word halal. The themes are -legislation, the practicality of the legislation, elimination of harm, and positive impact. Based on these themes and principles the conceptual framework is developed and various aspects of the halal certification process are analyzed. For analysis purposes, market leaders in 5 sectors are chosen.  The qualitative analysis relied on online reports, company websites, research papers, and webinar proceedings. The study establishes a link between Quranic themes and Shariah principles. From the content analysis, it has been found that the most widely applied theme in all sectors is eliminating impurity; the most overlooked theme is positive impact. Leaders in the food and finance sector have a diversified Shariah board. However, shariah principles need to be incorporated in analyzing the customer demand, especially for processed food and clothing. The research is expected to assist the policymakers and other stakeholders in establishing a framework for halal certification that would maintain the label's integrity. The thematic study of the Quran highlights the necessity to take initiatives to reduce the knowledge gap, develop tools to assess customer demand, and the impact of consuming halal goods and services from a Shariah perspective. Such initiatives would assist in developing more halal products and services and boost economic and social impact.