Global research trends on halal food SMEs: a bibliometric analysis

Purpose The purpose of this study is to analyze the research trends of halal food small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and provide an overview of future research directions. The halal food industry has seen exponential growth over the past few decades, driven by increasing demand from Muslim consumers worldwide. SMEs play a crucial role in the halal food sector. With the halal food industry, the largest halal industry sector and SMEs the dominant business actor, future research directions that are particularly relevant to halal food SMEs will have major impact for the halal industry as a whole. Design/methodology/approach This investigation used bibliometric analysis, using data from the Scopus database spanning the decade 2013–2022. This study incorporated data visualization and network analysis techniques, implemented through various software tools, including VOSviewer, Scimago Graphica, Bibliometrix and Microsoft Excel. Findings Research on halal SMEs from 2013 to 2022 has consistently increased. Malaysia has conducted the majority of research on halal SMEs. The Journal of Islamic Marketing produced the highest number of research documents in this field. Universiti Utara Malaysia has emerged as the leading institution for research on halal SMEs. Ali MH is the author with the most significant contribution to this area of study. Future research directions in halal SMEs may include topics related to sustainability, social aspects, innovative technology, productivity enhancement and competitiveness. The Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia is the primary funding institution for research and publications on halal food SMEs. Originality/value This study serves as a comprehensive reference and analytical overview of current and prospective research trends in the domain of halal food SMEs. This study aims to provide substantive guidance to scholars, practitioners and government officials regarding the requisite steps to advance research and development in the halal sector. By elucidating the key areas of focus and potential growth, this study seeks to foster a more profound understanding and encourage collaborative efforts to enhance the halal food industry.