Under the slogan “Halal: A Professional Industry,” the third edition of the “Makkah Halal Forum 2024” commenced in Makkah, running from February 14 to 16. This prominent global event is organized by the “Manafe’a” initiative and is being held at the Makkah Chamber of Commerce Exhibition and Events Center under the patronage of His Excellency the Minister of Commerce, Dr. Majid bin Abdullah Al-Qasabi, bringing together thought leaders, decision-makers, and investors from around the world.
General context: The halal industry as a global economic force
The term “halal” is no longer limited to food products permitted according to Islamic law; it has evolved into a comprehensive economic system valued at trillions of dollars. Today’s halal economy encompasses vital and diverse sectors such as Islamic finance, tourism, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and modest fashion. With nearly two billion Muslims worldwide, this market represents a massive consumer force, and there is a growing interest among non-Muslims in halal products due to their association with high standards of quality, safety, and ethical practices.
The importance of the forum and its role in achieving Vision 2030
The organization of the Makkah Halal Forum in the heart of the Islamic world reflects the leading role that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia aspires to play in this vital sector, in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to diversify income sources and enhance the Kingdom's position as a global logistics and trade hub. In his opening remarks, the Secretary-General of the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development, Yousef Hassan Khallawi, emphasized that the forum aims to solidify the status of Makkah and Madinah as global centers for business, investment, and trade for Muslims, leveraging their profound religious significance.
A qualitative leap towards professionalism and governance
The forum's slogan, "Halal: A Professional Industry," reflects a strategic direction aimed at transforming the halal sector from a mere religious obligation into a comprehensive industrial system built on solid professional foundations. This includes developing standards, implementing best practices in governance and transparency, and building institutional trust between producers and consumers. The future of this sector depends fundamentally on professionalism in all its aspects, from management and operations to finance, marketing, and building global brands.
Expected impact and agenda
The forum is an unparalleled strategic platform for shaping the future of the halal industry. Its agenda includes a high-level conference with five main sessions addressing vital topics such as the global positioning of the halal brand, Islamic investment and finance, and building the sector's economic assets. Specialized workshops and a closed roundtable will also be held, bringing together leading figures and decision-makers. The forum is expected to contribute to standardization, encourage technological innovation, attract investment, and facilitate trade between Islamic countries and the rest of the world, thereby reinforcing the Kingdom's role as an influential force in the global economy.
