Al-Qasabi launches Makkah Forum: Saudi Arabia is a global center for the halal industry
Under the patronage and in the presence of the Minister of Commerce, Dr. Majid bin Abdullah Al-Qasabi, the third edition of the Makkah Halal Forum, organized by the Manafe’ initiative under the theme “Halal: A Professional Industry,” was launched. The event is being held at the Makkah Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Exhibition and Events Center, with a high-level international presence including economic leaders and regulatory bodies from around the world, reflecting the Kingdom’s growing importance in leading this vital sector.
A qualitative shift in the concept of the halal economy
In his opening remarks, Minister of Commerce Dr. Majid Al-Qasabi emphasized that this year's forum theme embodies a fundamental shift in the perception of the halal sector, moving from being merely a growing consumer market to a "comprehensive industry" governed by rigorous standards of quality, governance, and transparency. Al-Qasabi noted that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has adopted a clear strategic approach aimed at solidifying its position as a global hub and a trusted authority in the halal industry, through the development of a sophisticated legislative and regulatory framework that keeps pace with global changes.
This trend is particularly important given the rapid growth of the global Islamic economy. Economic estimates indicate that the global halal economy is worth trillions of dollars and extends beyond food to include finance, cosmetics, tourism, and pharmaceuticals. Through its Vision 2030, the Kingdom aims to capture a major share of this vast market, leveraging its religious significance as the holiest site in Islam, thus granting its halal certification unparalleled credibility and trust.
Mecca: A platform for economic decision-making
For his part, Abdullah Saleh Kamel, Chairman of the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development and Chairman of the Federation of Saudi Chambers, explained that the forum has moved beyond theoretical discussions to become a "decision-making platform." He emphasized that choosing Mecca to host this event carries profound significance, as it is the truest embodiment of an industry built on values and integrity. He added that halal is not merely a product, but a global vision that balances economic growth with ethical commitment—something the global consumer seeks today.
Launching quality initiatives: The Academy and the Golden Logo
The ceremony witnessed the launch of strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening the sector's infrastructure, most notably the announcement of the "Halal Academy," which will focus on training human resources and raising the level of professionalism in this field. The "Golden Halal" logo was also unveiled, originating from Mecca to serve as a global mark of trust for consumers, reflecting a commitment to the highest standards of quality, Sharia compliance, and health.
International partnerships to standardize standards
On the international cooperation front, the forum witnessed intense diplomatic and economic activity, with the Minister of Commerce overseeing the signing of strategic agreements and memoranda of understanding. These included a memorandum of understanding between the Saudi Food and Drug Authority and the Halal Products Guarantee Agency in Indonesia, and another with the Central Islamic Council in Thailand. These partnerships aim to unify halal standards, facilitate trade, and ensure mutual recognition of halal certificates, thereby enhancing the flow of Saudi exports to major Asian markets.
The broad international presence from countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Turkey, and Malaysia reflects the Kingdom’s success in transforming this forum into a global meeting platform for sustainable investment and a hub for economic integration between Islamic and global markets, in line with the objectives of diversifying the national economy.
