JAKARTA — Azerbaijan is preparing to host the second edition of the Azerbaijan Halal Business (AZHAB) Forum on October 7-8, 2025, reinforcing the nation’s position as a strategic hub for international economic cooperation. The Small and Medium Business Development Agency (KOBİA), operating under the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Azerbaijan, is spearheading the organization of this significant gathering.

Operating under the theme “Halal Industry as a Source of Resilience in a Rapidly Changing World,” the Forum seeks to catalyze groundbreaking partnerships, encourage knowledge exchange, and attract international investment capital to the expanding halal sector.

Uniting Global Stakeholders

The upcoming AZHAB Forum will assemble an impressive roster of participants spanning government leadership, industry innovators, academic researchers, business owners, and delegates from multinational organizations. This varied composition will enable substantive dialogue on how the halal industry contributes to economic stability, environmental sustainability, and international commerce.

The Forum will investigate emerging possibilities across multiple industries—including financial services, hospitality, food manufacturing, beauty products, healthcare, and corporate management—with particular attention to environmental transitions and women’s participation in business ownership.

Comprehensive Program Structure

Over two intensive days, attendees will engage with both a strategic conference and a comprehensive trade exhibition. The conference agenda features specialist-led discussions examining essential subjects such as certification protocols, market entry approaches, and incorporating eco-friendly methodologies into halal business frameworks.

A milestone moment will mark the launch of the “OIC-SME Network,” a program developed under the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) framework to strengthen coordination among institutions supporting small and medium enterprises throughout OIC member nations. This network will function as a mechanism for sharing expertise, developing capabilities, and fostering economic partnership internationally.

Exhibition Platform

The trade show component will present a wide spectrum of halal goods and services from Azerbaijani and foreign enterprises. Following the successful 2024 Forum that hosted nearly 30 exhibitors, organizers anticipate substantially greater participation in 2025, with companies from additional countries joining the event.

Exhibitors will gain opportunities to engage with worldwide audiences, establish strategic alliances, investigate export possibilities, and discover emerging innovations, market movements, and industry benchmarks within the halal sector. Both domestic and international businesses can register immediately through azhabforum.az to claim their position at this prominent showcase.

Educational Initiatives

The Forum’s centerpiece educational offering is the two-day “Think Halal: What Every Business Should Know” seminar, conducted by Islamic Chamber Halal Services. This intensive curriculum will equip business executives from various industries with thorough understanding of halal business frameworks, adherence to international halal regulations, and tactics for accessing worldwide markets.

Attendees will acquire actionable expertise on managing the intricacies of halal certification and capitalizing on prospects in rapidly developing markets. Furthermore, the Forum’s Expert Corner will provide individualized advisory services, allowing businesses to tackle particular obstacles and receive customized direction on certification procedures.

Technology and Innovation Focus

Forum programming will emphasize technology’s contribution to the halal industry, featuring conversations on digital solutions for supply chain visibility, blockchain applications for certification verification, and sustainable methodologies aligned with worldwide environmental objectives. These discussions aim to furnish businesses with resources and understanding necessary for success in an increasingly competitive and interconnected global marketplace.

Strategic Partnerships

AZHAB Forum 2025 operates through collaboration with prominent international organizations, including the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the Statistical, Economic and Social Research and Training Centre for Islamic Countries (SESRIC), the Standards and Metrology Institute for Islamic Countries (SMIIC), the Islamic Chamber Halal Services, and Caspian Event Organisers LLC. ATENA LLC provides official sponsorship, demonstrating private sector dedication to advancing Azerbaijan’s position in the global halal marketplace.

Building on Success

The inaugural 2024 AZHAB Forum established strong foundations, drawing approximately 350 participants, including 100 international delegates from Australia, the United States, Eurasia, and Africa. Supported by an OIC Council of Foreign Ministers resolution, the event positioned itself as a leading platform for encouraging dialogue and partnership within the halal industry. The 2025 Forum aims to expand upon this foundation, delivering enhanced opportunities for professional networking, innovation, and economic expansion.

Azerbaijan’s Strategic Position

With the worldwide halal market projected to exceed $2 trillion in value by 2028, AZHAB Forum 2025 places Azerbaijan at the leading edge of this vibrant sector. Through cultivating international partnerships, advancing sustainable business methodologies, and presenting innovative products and services, the Forum will strengthen economic resilience and global competitive positioning.

Azerbaijan’s geographical advantage, developed infrastructure, and dedication to economic diversification establish it as an optimal venue for this transformative gathering.

Additional information, registration procedures, and announcements regarding AZHAB Forum 2025 are available at azhabforum.az.

Original Article:

Halal Times. (2025, September 30). Azerbaijan to Host AZHAB Forum 2025 for Halal Industry Innovation. Retrieved from https://www.halaltimes.com/azerbaijan-to-host-azhab-forum-2025-for-halal-industry-innovation/