Aurangzeb, ICCD discuss boosting Pakistan’s halal exports

Pakistan is seeking to identify specific products, sectors and international markets to expand its presence in the growing global halal economy, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said on Friday during a meeting with the Secretary-General of the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development (ICCD).

As per a statement, Aurangzeb held a meeting with H.E Shaikh Yousef Hassan Khalawi, Secretary-General, ICCD, to discuss opportunities for economic cooperation, halal markets, Islamic finance and broader private-sector cooperation. He was accompanied by Muhammad Atif Hanif, CEO, Al Baraka Bank Pakistan, and Aalia Jaffar, Director, International Relations of ICCD.

The meeting discussed the growing global halal economy and opportunities for Pakistan to strengthen its presence across sectors including halal food, fashion, halal tourism, services and other consumer markets.

Aurangzeb emphasised the importance of moving beyond a broad halal concept towards identifying specific products, sectors and markets where Pakistani businesses can expand and capitalise on emerging opportunities.

The finance minister underscored the importance of strengthening linkages between Pakistan’s business community and international business networks. He highlighted the potential for greater engagement and collaboration through the chamber’s global outreach and platforms.

Khalawi briefed Aurangzeb on the expanding international outreach of the Islamic Chamber and its engagement with business communities, including those in non-OIC countries. He highlighted the chamber’s efforts to connect Muslim business communities globally with private-sector and institutional partners and promote greater halal economic cooperation.

The participants also discussed opportunities to strengthen Pakistan’s Islamic finance ecosystem and promote greater collaboration with international platforms working in Islamic economics and finance. The importance of developing commercially viable opportunities and improving market linkages for Pakistani businesses was highlighted.

Khalawi shared international experiences in halal business development, sustainable tourism and Islamic economic cooperation. He emphasised the importance of identifying sector-specific opportunities, understanding international market demand and supporting businesses in developing commercially viable offerings.

Aurangzeb appreciated the Islamic Chamber’s engagement with Pakistan and emphasised the importance of continued interaction with the business community to identify practical opportunities for collaboration. He also encouraged greater connectivity between Pakistani businesses and international business networks facilitated by the chamber.