Erdogan highlights global potential of halal market

(MENAFN) President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Wednesday that the global halal sector is poised for growth, as its products and services cater to nearly two billion consumers who value cleanliness, health, and religious compliance. In a message to the opening of the World Halal Summit, Erdogan recalled that last year’s summit drew 50,000 visitors from 50 countries and over 500 companies, and he expects these numbers to rise this year. He noted that the global halal market has expanded to $7 trillion and emphasized the summit’s role in further boosting the sector.

The 11th World Halal Summit and Expo, held in Istanbul from Nov. 26–29 under the Turkish presidency, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and related institutions, brings together industry participants under the theme “Strengthening Halal Industry via Innovation and Excellence.”

Turkish Trade Minister Omer Bolat highlighted the importance of solidarity among Islamic countries amid rising protectionism and customs duties, stressing that stronger cooperation can boost economic development and intra-Muslim trade. Addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, he said: “I extend my greetings to our brothers and sisters in Gaza and Palestine, where nearly 70,000 of our Palestinian brothers and sisters have lost their lives for over two years due to Israel's brutal attacks and massacres. … We hope for a peaceful era, one in which stability, reconstruction, and aid will soon resume in Gaza and Palestine, in accordance with the ceasefire agreement reached in Egypt.”

Fikri Ataoglu, deputy prime minister of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, described halal trade as a force for both economic growth and diplomacy, bridging geographical divides and promoting cultural exchange. He added: “Halal trade prioritizes trust, quality, ethics, traceability, and human health. Each of these values also enhances the brand value of countries. … The rise of halal products in global markets not only creates new business opportunities, but also strengthens the image of countries, opens doors to cultural promotion, and becomes a window that brings people into contact with a country for the first time.”

Afghan Minister of Trade and Industry Nureddin Azizi highlighted Afghanistan’s investment potential, emphasizing the country’s geostrategic location, rich natural resources, youthful workforce, and market access. He said: “We offer great opportunities for all investors seeking to pursue economic activities in mining, industry, agricultural production, healthcare, tar, super phosphate, banking, and other sectors.” Azizi also expressed his desire to strengthen Afghanistan-Turkiye economic ties.

Jumoke Oduwole, Nigeria’s minister of industry, trade, and investment, said the summit serves as a global platform to advance the halal economy. She added: “Nigeria has gained investor confidence over the last two years, accounting for 7.5% of Africa's $4.2 billion halal food market. … We welcome your investment in positioning Nigeria as Africa's halal food hub.”

MENAFN27112025000045017640ID1110404148