The Halal Times (2025)

03/01/2025

Morocco’s dinner tables are a vibrant tapestry of flavors, with fragrant tagines and sizzling skewers showcasing the country’s rich culinary heritage. However, a key ingredient – red meat – has recently become a source of concern for both consumers and policymakers, particularly as Morocco Livestock Imports have surged to meet growing domestic demand.

Morocco witnessed a dramatic surge in livestock imports in 2024 in response to a significant market shortage. This in-depth exploration delves into the factors driving this import boom, its impact on the market, and the long-term implications for Morocco’s agricultural sector, examining this critical issue’s economic, social, and environmental dimensions.
read full article on: https://www.halaltimes.com/morocco-livestock-imports-soar-sheep-cow-shipments-reach-4-8-billion-dirhams/

03/01/2025

Indonesia, the world’s most populous Muslim nation, is at the forefront of a compelling convergence of faith and finance: the development of Sharia-compliant crypto. This initiative reflects a growing global trend where Islamic finance is actively exploring the transformative potential of blockchain technology while meticulously adhering to established religious principles. This exploration is not merely a regional phenomenon confined to Indonesia; it represents a significant and potentially paradigm-shifting change in how Islamic finance interacts with modern technology, with profound implications for global financial markets and the broader digital economy.

The Financial Services Authority (OJK), Indonesia’s financial watchdog and regulatory body, is actively navigating this burgeoning and complex landscape. Hasan Fawzi, OJK’s executive head overseeing crypto asset supervision, has publicly affirmed the agency’s openness to the development and implementation of Sharia-based cryptocurrencies. This receptiveness follows a formal proposal submitted by the Sharia Crypto Asset Association, advocating for collaboration on introducing digital assets specifically designed to align with the intricate principles of Islamic finance. This collaborative approach is crucial, as it effectively brings together regulatory expertise from the OJK, practical industry knowledge from the association, and the essential scholarly guidance of Sharia experts.
read full article on: https://www.halaltimes.com/ojk-leads-sharia-compliant-crypto-testing-in-indonesia-halal-or-haram/

03/01/2025

For nearly 1.9 billion Muslims worldwide, driven by the Islamic Fintech Revolution, navigating the complexities of personal finance while adhering to their faith has long presented a unique challenge. Traditional financial systems, often deeply intertwined with interest-based transactions (riba), stand in contrast to the principles of Islamic finance (Shariah), which strictly prohibits such practices. This has historically created a significant barrier for Muslims seeking to participate in mainstream financial markets and build wealth in a manner consistent with their religious beliefs.

However, a transformative shift is underway – the Islamic Fintech Revolution. This dynamic sector is harnessing the power of technology to bridge the divide between conventional finance and Islamic values, unlocking a vast and largely untapped market. Platforms like Musaffa are at the forefront of this movement, offering innovative solutions that empower Muslim investors to participate confidently in the global economy while remaining true to their faith.
read full article on: https://www.halaltimes.com/islamic-fintech-revolution-making-halal-banking-accessible-online/

03/01/2025

Bahrain’s Islamic finance sector has consistently demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth. This article delves into the recent success of the Central Bank of Bahrain’s (CBB) Sukuk Al-Ijara issuance, which witnessed a record-breaking oversubscription. This event serves as a testament to the burgeoning demand for Shariah-compliant investments in the region and underscores Bahrain’s pivotal role in the global Islamic finance landscape.
read full article on: https://www.halaltimes.com/central-bank-of-bahrain-sukuk-al-ijara-oversubscribed-amid-strong-investor-demand/

03/01/2025

The Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF) transcends the typical trade show experience; it’s a dynamic confluence of commerce, culture, and innovation, a vibrant microcosm of Bangladesh’s economic aspirations. Held annually at the sprawling Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Center in Purbachal, a strategically planned satellite city near Dhaka, this month-long extravaganza has firmly established itself as the largest trade fair in South Asia, drawing millions of visitors from across the globe.

The DITF serves as a crucial platform where established multinational corporations, thriving small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and ambitious budding entrepreneurs converge to showcase their diverse products and services, forge valuable strategic partnerships, explore burgeoning market opportunities, and contribute significantly to Bangladesh’s rapidly growing economy.
read full article on: https://www.halaltimes.com/dhaka-international-trade-fair-2024-opens-wednesday/

01/01/2025

Birmingham, known for its rich diversity and vibrant cultural scene, is gearing up for one of the UK’s most anticipated and exciting food festivals in 2025. After a highly successful three-day event at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in May 2024, the Halal Food Festival will return with its Halal On Tour event, bringing a unique culinary celebration to a new, iconic location—Edgbaston Stadium. This year, the festival will take place on May 24, 2025, offering an extraordinary day of food, shopping, and family-friendly activities, all within the legendary grounds of one of Birmingham’s most renowned venues.

The Halal Food Festival 2025 promises to be a celebration of diversity, culture, and of course, food, offering something for everyone, from halal food lovers to families looking for a fun day out. The event will run from 12 pm to 8 pm, and attendees can expect to indulge in a rich variety of halal street food, explore an artisan market, and immerse themselves in the latest trends in halal lifestyle and fashion. It will be a culinary experience like no other, held in a venue known for hosting world-class sporting events.
read full article on: https://www.halaltimes.com/halal-food-event-2025-discover-unmissable-delights-at-birminghams-edgbaston-stadium/

01/01/2025

Welsh Lamb has long been celebrated for its superior quality and taste. However, as consumer preferences evolve and global markets shift, it has become essential for the industry to tap into new opportunities. One market segment that stands out in this landscape is the Muslim population, which represents over 1.9 billion people worldwide. This rapidly growing demographic offers immense potential for Welsh Lamb producers, both domestically and internationally. As highlighted at the recent Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC) annual conference in Builth Wells, the opportunities in Muslim markets are vast, and the time to act is now.

Why Muslim Markets Are Key to the Future of Welsh Lamb Sales
Dr. Awal Fuseini, Halal Sector Senior Manager at the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), emphasized the significance of these markets at the conference. According to him, the UK’s 3.9 million Muslims are a pivotal audience for the lamb industry. “Our research shows that 80% of UK Muslims eat lamb at least once a week,” he stated. This is in stark contrast to the general UK public, where only 6% consume lamb weekly.
read full article on: https://www.halaltimes.com/why-muslim-markets-are-key-to-the-future-of-welsh-lamb-sales/

01/01/2025

In a groundbreaking partnership, Crypto.com, one of the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges with over 100 million registered users, has joined forces with Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB), the UAE’s largest Islamic bank. This strategic collaboration aims to merge the innovative capabilities of blockchain and digital assets with the principles of Sharia-compliant finance, setting a new standard for Islamic banking in the digital age.

With total reported assets of approximately $79 billion in 2023, DIB’s stature as a leader in Islamic finance positions this partnership as a pivotal step in advancing the global adoption of Sharia-compliant digital assets. Through this alliance, Crypto.com and DIB are addressing the growing demand for financial products that align with Islamic principles while leveraging cutting-edge technology to redefine customer experiences.
read full article on: https://www.halaltimes.com/dubai-islamic-bank-and-crypto-com-partner-on-sharia-compliant-digital-assets/

01/01/2025

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia and Peru are deepening bilateral ties through groundbreaking joint ventures (JVs) that aim to revolutionize the halal food and infrastructure sectors. By leveraging Malaysia’s global leadership in halal certification and production with Peru’s rich agricultural resources and strategic logistics, both nations are setting a new benchmark for international trade and collaboration. These ventures promise significant economic benefits while addressing the growing global demand for ethically certified products.

Why Halal Food and Infrastructure Ventures?
The global halal industry is projected to surpass $3.2 trillion by 2028, driven by increasing consumer awareness and demand for halal-certified products across diverse markets. As a recognized leader in halal certification, Malaysia has unmatched expertise in producing and exporting halal goods, ranging from food products to pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Conversely, Peru offers premium agricultural inputs such as quinoa, chia seeds, and cashew nuts, which are highly sought after in global markets for their nutritional value and sustainable production methods.
read full article on: https://www.halaltimes.com/malaysia-and-peru-partner-to-boost-halal-food-and-infrastructure-ventures/

31/12/2024

Emirates Islamic, a trailblazer in the UAE’s banking sector, has achieved a landmark moment at the MEA Finance Awards 2024, earning two prestigious titles: ‘Best Islamic Bank for SMEs’ and ‘Best Bond Issue of the Year.’ These accolades underscore the bank’s ongoing commitment to innovation, sustainability, and economic empowerment in the UAE and beyond.

Let’s explore the key achievements that earned Emirates Islamic this recognition and how the bank continues to set benchmarks in Islamic finance.

Best Islamic Bank for SMEs
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) form the backbone of the UAE’s economy, accounting for over 60% of the GDP and employing nearly 86% of the private sector workforce. Recognizing the pivotal role SMEs play, Emirates Islamic has positioned itself as a leading enabler for entrepreneurs by offering tailored, Shari’ah-compliant financial solutions.
read full article on: https://www.halaltimes.com/mea-finance-awards-2024-recognize-emirates-islamic-as-a-top-performer/

31/12/2024

In recent years, the rise of startups catering to Muslim Americans has significantly transformed the business landscape. This growing demographic, with its distinct cultural and religious needs, is now being actively recognized by forward-thinking entrepreneurs. From halal food services and Sharia-compliant finance to modest fashion and tech innovations, these startups are addressing a wide range of needs, revolutionizing various industries in the process. In this article, we’ll delve into the new wave of startups serving Muslim Americans, examining their market impact and the valuable services they provide to this vibrant community.

The Growing Market of Muslim Americans
The Muslim American population is diverse and growing, with estimates suggesting about 3.45 million Muslims are living in the United States. This community is characterized by its young demographic, with a large portion being under the age of 30. As this population grows, so does its economic influence, creating a demand for products and services that align with Islamic values and lifestyles.
read full article on: https://www.halaltimes.com/a-new-wave-of-startups-caters-to-muslim-americans/

31/12/2024

Imagine embarking on the spiritual journey of a lifetime without the weight of financial stress holding you back. That’s exactly what the Indonesian government is working toward for the 2025 Hajj season. With a renewed focus on affordability and quality, they’re aiming to make this sacred pilgrimage more accessible for all. In a press briefing held at the Parliament Complex in Central Jakarta on December 30, 2024, Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs, Muhammad Syafi’i, emphasized the government’s dedication to reducing the Hajj Pilgrimage Costs (BPIH).

By striking the perfect balance between cost efficiency and exceptional service, this initiative promises to ease the financial burden on pilgrims, ensuring they can focus on the spiritual significance of their journey. Let’s explore how these transformative changes could redefine the Hajj experience for Indonesian Muslims.
read full article on: https://www.halaltimes.com/indonesia-targets-reduction-in-2025-hajj-costs-to-rp85-million/

31/12/2024

As the world prepares to usher in 2025, the opportunity to reflect, recalibrate, and recharge is ripe. For halal entrepreneurs and professionals, this isn’t just about setting goals; it’s about aligning personal and professional aspirations with Islamic values. The halal economy—encompassing everything from food to fashion and finance—is thriving, and those who approach the new year with a clear vision and strong intent will undoubtedly reap the rewards.

Let’s explore how you can step into 2025 with purpose, strategy, and barakah.

Related: Where To Find Halal Business Opportunities in 2025?

Reflection and Goal Setting with Purpose

The foundation of a strong start lies in understanding where you’ve been. Reflecting on 2024 is not just an exercise in self-awareness; it’s a way to build on successes and learn from missteps. Consider a modest fashion entrepreneur who introduced a new line of sustainable hijabs last year. While the concept aligned with global trends, the marketing didn’t resonate with younger audiences. This reflection highlights the gaps and provides a roadmap for future campaigns.
read full article on: https://www.halaltimes.com/how-to-start-2025-strong-a-guide-for-halal-entrepreneurs-and-professionals/

30/12/2024

Islamic finance in Türkiye has emerged as a dynamic force, effectively addressing global economic challenges while positioning itself as a pivotal player in the international Islamic finance landscape. Leveraging its strategic geographical position, historical ties to Islamic culture, and robust regulatory framework, Türkiye continues to redefine the boundaries of Sharia-compliant financial practices, creating innovative solutions for a rapidly evolving global economy.

The Rise of Islamic Finance in Türkiye
The evolution of Islamic finance in Türkiye is deeply rooted in its cultural and historical identity. As a bridge between East and West, Türkiye’s unique position has allowed it to integrate the principles of Islamic finance seamlessly into its financial system. Over the past two decades, participation banks—the country’s term for Islamic banks—have gained prominence. These institutions operate under Sharia principles, offering alternatives to conventional banking by eliminating interest-based transactions.
read full article on: https://www.halaltimes.com/islamic-finance-in-turkiye-drives-growth-amid-global-economic-challenges/

30/12/2024

In a region where opportunity is as vast as the desert sands, Dubai has rapidly transformed into the crown jewel of the United Arab Emirates, attracting a surge of global investors. But what sets this glittering metropolis apart from its neighboring emirates, making it the preferred destination for those seeking lucrative returns and unparalleled business prospects?

A Strategic Crossroads

Dubai’s geographical positioning is one of its most compelling assets. Nestled between Europe, Asia, and Africa, the emirate is a vital gateway for international trade and commerce. This prime location facilitates unparalleled connectivity, making Dubai a pivotal hub for businesses aiming to access emerging markets across three continents. The presence of world-class infrastructure, such as the Jebel Ali Port—the largest man-made harbor globally—and the Dubai International Airport, one of the busiest airports worldwide, underscores the emirate’s role as a central node in global logistics networks.
read full article on: https://www.halaltimes.com/5-compelling-reasons-investors-are-choosing-dubai-over-other-uae-emirates/

30/12/2024

KUALA LUMPUR: Thailand and Malaysia are setting an ambitious target of achieving US$30 billion (approximately RM134.22 billion) in bilateral trade by 2027. This milestone reflects their commitment to deepening economic cooperation, enhancing cross-border trade, and fortifying partnerships in key sectors such as halal goods and rubber production. The collaboration is a significant step toward fostering regional integration and prosperity within ASEAN.

Key Developments from High-Level Meetings
The recent visit of Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to Malaysia, at the invitation of Malaysia’s Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, marked a turning point in bilateral relations. From December 15 to 16, the high-level discussions catalyzed renewed economic collaboration and strategic planning for shared growth.
read full article on: https://www.halaltimes.com/thailand-and-malaysia-target-us30-billion-trade-by-2027-with-cross-border-ties/

30/12/2024

Halal certification has become an essential topic for businesses catering to Muslim consumers worldwide. In Malaysia, a global leader in the halal industry, the rules surrounding halal certification have garnered significant attention. The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), the authority responsible for halal certification, emphasizes that obtaining halal certification remains voluntary. However, businesses often seek it to enhance their credibility, expand market reach, and meet the growing demand for halal-compliant products and services.

What Are Halal Certification Rules?
Halal certification rules outline the processes and requirements that businesses must follow to ensure their products and services comply with Islamic principles. These rules cover various aspects, from sourcing raw materials to production, packaging, and distribution. In Malaysia, JAKIM has established rigorous standards under the Malaysian Halal Certification (SPHM) program to maintain the integrity of halal products.
read full article on: https://www.halaltimes.com/jakim-says-halal-certification-not-mandatory-and-urges-clear-communication/

30/12/2024

The global Halal market is expected to reach $3.2 trillion by 2024, primarily due to the growing Muslim population of about 2 billion. In 2022, member countries of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) imported $338 billion in Halal products, with an anticipated growth rate of 7.6% per year, aiming for $492 billion by 2027.

The U.S. ranked fourth globally with $20.8 billion in Halal product exports to OIC countries in 2022. The primary markets for U.S. Halal exports are Indonesia, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Malaysia.

For businesses aiming to enter this market, obtaining Halal certification is a requirement. Halal certification ensures that products meet Islamic dietary laws, building consumer trust and facilitating access to this expanding market. In this blog, we will explore how businesses can tap into this trillion-dollar market and get Halal certification from Islamic Services of America (ISA) for their products.
read full article on: https://www.halaltimes.com/get-halal-certification-in-the-usa/

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