| By Saudi Gazette 

Halal Economy Positioned as a Strategic Pillar of Islamic Development

Sheikh Abdullah Saleh Kamel, Chairman of the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development (ICCD), stated that the halal economy has evolved into a central pillar of the modern Islamic economic system. Speaking at the 41st session of the COMCEC in Istanbul, he described halal industry development as the next major engine of growth for Muslim-majority nations, standing alongside Islamic finance as a core driver of economic integration.

Call for Global Reform of Halal Standards

Addressing ministers, policymakers, and international organization leaders, Kamel stressed the urgency of restructuring the global halal ecosystem. He highlighted the need for unified legislation, harmonized institutions, and standardized governance to strengthen the global competitiveness of Islamic economies within international markets.

ICCD’s 2030 Strategy Targets Economic Integration

Kamel emphasized that the ICCD is actively implementing its 2030 strategy aimed at deeper economic cooperation among OIC member states. The strategy prioritizes halal industry expansion, Islamic finance empowerment, entrepreneurship revitalization, and sustainable development as foundational elements of a resilient Islamic economy.

Saudi Arabia’s Role in Advancing the Global Halal Industry

The ICCD chairman praised Saudi Arabia’s leadership in shaping the global halal economy. He highlighted the Kingdom’s initiatives that promote innovation, institutional reform, and international collaboration within halal sectors. Particular recognition was given to the Public Investment Fund’s establishment of a dedicated halal products development company, described as a transformative move with global impact.

Makkah Halal Forum Positioned as a Global Platform

Kamel acknowledged Saudi Minister of Commerce Dr. Majed Al-Qasabi for supporting joint halal initiatives, especially the Makkah Halal Forum. He described the forum as a future-focused international platform connecting investors, policymakers, and industry experts, with ambitions to become an annual global meeting point for halal standards, financing, innovation, and market expansion.

Halal Economy Extends Beyond Religious Compliance

According to Kamel, halal is no longer confined to religious observance. It now represents a global economic model rooted in ethical production, responsible consumption, quality assurance, and sustainability. Rising international demand for value-based products continues to accelerate the halal economy’s momentum across sectors.

Youth Investment Critical to Islamic Economic Leadership

Kamel urged OIC member states to prioritize human capital development, particularly youth empowerment. He noted that sustained investment in skills, innovation, and entrepreneurship is essential for Islamic countries seeking leadership within the future global economy.

Original Article:

Saudi Gazette. (2025). Abdullah Kamel: Halal economy is the next engine of growth for the Islamic world. https://www.saudigazette.com.sa/article/656243/SAUDI-ARABIA/Abdullah-Kamel-Halal-economy-is-the-next-engine-of-growth-for-the-Islamic-world