PROBLEM EXPLORE IN DEVELOPING THE HALAL FOOD INDUSTRY IN TOURISM AREA

Abstract Purpose - This paper aims to explore the problems in developing the halal food industry in the tourismm area, and then find solutions to overcome these issues. One of the popular tourismm areas in Indonesia is Bangka Belitung. Design/methodology/approach –The respondents in this study are practitioners and academics who have knowledge of the halal food industry in Bangka Belitung. Then, the analytic network process is used as a tool to analyze priority problems and solutions. Findings - The analysis reveals that there are three priority issues: 1. Lack of understanding and commitment from companies to excel the halal products, 2. Lack of company understanding related to the halal supply chain, 3. Declining performance of the tourism industry sector. Then, the priority solution in this finding is to increase and improve professions, academics, and supporting institutions. Research limitations/implications - This study only examines the problem of developing the halal food industry in the tourism area. This study contributes to the literature by exploring problems and discussing solutions. Practical implications –This study highlights the priority problems and discusses the solutions to become a reference in making policies and strategies in the development of the halal food industry in the tourism area, especially in the Bangka Belitung Islands, Indonesia. Originality/value –Although there are several studies in this field, to the best of the author's knowledge, there has been no research analysis about the problems of the halal food industry in tourismm areas. Therefore, the analysis is presented using the pioneering method which considers sustainability and innovation as the priorities