Paris Baguette Singapore: Halal Certification & Expansion Plans
- Singaporean consumers will soon have wider access to halal-certified bakery products with Paris Baguette’s announcement that all its outlets across the island nation have achieved the certification.
- The certification, awarded by the Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura (MUIS), covers all ingredients, preparation processes, and operational standards, ensuring compliance with recognized halal requirements.
- Hana Lee, CEO of Paris Baguette for Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa, described the certification as a meaningful milestone for the brand.
Singaporean consumers will soon have wider access to halal-certified bakery products with Paris Baguette’s announcement that all its outlets across the island nation have achieved the certification. The move, confirmed on , signals a significant step towards greater inclusivity for the South Korean-born bakery chain and caters to the growing demand for halal options within Singapore’s diverse population.
The certification, awarded by the Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura (MUIS), covers all ingredients, preparation processes, and operational standards, ensuring compliance with recognized halal requirements. This represents an evolution from the chain’s previous “no pork, no lard” policy, offering a more robust and officially recognized assurance to Muslim consumers.
Hana Lee, CEO of Paris Baguette for Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa, described the certification as a meaningful milestone
for the brand. Singapore is a vibrant multicultural society and going halal underscores our brand’s core commitment to inclusivity and connection within our communities,
Lee stated. This allows even more people – families, friends and communities – to come together and enjoy the same quality, taste, and joy that Paris Baguette is known for. We’re truly excited to share this moment with everyone who has supported us.
Paris Baguette first entered the Singapore market in , opening its initial outlet at Wisma Atria. Since then, the chain has expanded rapidly, now operating over 20 locations across the island, including prominent spots in VivoCity and Jewel Changi Airport. The expansion reflects Singapore’s appeal as a key regional hub for international food and beverage brands.
The decision to pursue halal certification is not merely a local initiative. Paris Baguette has indicated plans to extend its halal-certified footprint throughout Southeast Asia and explore opportunities in the Middle East. This strategic move aligns with the company’s broader global expansion strategy and its ambition to tap into the significant halal market, estimated to encompass two billion consumers.
The move comes as demand for halal-certified products continues to grow globally, driven by a rising Muslim population and increasing consumer awareness of halal standards. Halal certification is particularly important in Southeast Asia, a region with a substantial Muslim population and a growing appetite for international food brands.
The certification process involves a rigorous assessment of all aspects of the food supply chain, from sourcing ingredients to preparation and handling. MUIS, the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore, plays a central role in overseeing halal certification in the country, ensuring that businesses adhere to strict standards.
Paris Baguette’s commitment to halal standards extends beyond simply meeting regulatory requirements. The company emphasizes its dedication to providing a welcoming and inclusive dining experience for all customers. This commitment is reflected in its efforts to adapt its menu and operations to cater to diverse dietary needs and preferences.
To commemorate the halal certification, Paris Baguette Singapore will introduce a new menu item, the K-Lava Tteokbokki Pastry Tart, on . The pastry combines Korean flavors with the bakery’s signature pastry techniques, featuring smoky cheese, white cheddar, chewy rice cake, Gochujang mayo, and a buttery pastry crumble.
The launch of a regional manufacturing hub in Johor, Malaysia, in , further supports Paris Baguette’s expansion plans. This facility, inaugurated with the support of Johor’s Chief Minister Mr Onn Hafiz Ghazi and SPC Group Chairman Mr. Hur Young In, is designed to strengthen the brand’s international supply chain and boost production capacity to meet rising global demand, particularly within the halal market.
SPC Group Chairman Hur Young In highlighted the importance of food in fostering connections and celebrating cultural diversity. Food is more than just what we eat—through food, we connect with people, honour our heritage, and create meaningful experiences that bring communities together,
he stated during the inauguration of the Malaysian hub. With the Johor Production Centre as a strategic hub, we aim to bring wholesome and delightful flavours to the 2 billion consumers in the Halal market, spanning Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.
The expansion into halal markets represents a significant opportunity for Paris Baguette to solidify its position as a global bakery leader. By catering to the specific needs and preferences of Muslim consumers, the company is demonstrating its commitment to inclusivity and its ability to adapt to evolving market dynamics. The move is likely to be closely watched by other international food and beverage brands seeking to expand their presence in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
