The Second Edition of Makkah Halal Forum Takes Place under the Patronage of the Saudi Minister of Commerce, and with the Participation of 120 countries.

From the heart of Makkah Al-Mukarramah, that spiritual place where the sanctity of history meets innovation, we are delighted to announce the launch of the second edition of Makkah Halal Forum, themed “Sustainable Development through Halal”, under the patronage of His Excellency Dr. Majid bin Abdullah Al-Qasabi, the Saudi Minister of Commerce, on February 25 – 27, 2025, at Makkah Chamber for Exhibition and Events Center, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The forum is jointly organized by Manafea Initiative and the Islamic Chamber Halal Services (ICHS), aiming to shape a more prosperous future for the global halal market.

Makkah Halal Forum attracts a distinguished selection of leading halal figures from around the world, featuring over 50 local and international speakers who will engage in a well-packed agenda filled with diverse activities, including engaging panel discussions, interactive workshops, and an international exhibition showcasing halal services and products with more than 150 exhibitors and dedicated pavilions representing over 15 countries. The event will also feature live Halal cooking shows, adding a unique touch of creativity and innovation. Additionally, a special signing ceremony for 14 cooperation agreements takes place, reflecting the commitment to fostering collaboration in this pivotal field.

Amidst a horizon filled with promise and ambition, the opening ceremony of Makkah Halal Forum’s second edition takes place with the presence of key Halal leaders and experts and decision-makers from around the globe, who will highlight the vital role of Halal in promoting sustainable development worldwide.

As part of his unwavering dedication to advancing diverse economic sectors, H.E. Mr. Abdullah Saleh Kamel, President of the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development and Chairman of Makkah Chamber of Commerce, inaugurated the ceremony, pointing out the significance of Makkah Halal Forum in propelling sustainable development and transforming Makkah and Al Madinah into hubs for business events, stating: “Makkah Halal Forum is a distinguished platform for all, and we are merely its reflection, as part of “Manafea” initiative which is dedicated to a singular mission: to serve the holy cities of Makkah and Al Madinah”.

In alignment with the Kingdom’s ambitious vision to support the national economy, H.E. Dr. Majid bin Abdullah Al-Qasabi, Saudi Minister of Commerce, stated: “In line with the Saudi Vision 2030, the Kingdom has adopted a comprehensive strategy to enhance its position as a leading global hub in the Halal industry. This is exemplified by the launch of the National Halal Products Strategy and the establishment of the Halal Products Development Company, aiming at creating an integrated system that supports innovation, enhances quality, and solidifies the Kingdom’s reputation as a trusted source for halal products worldwide”, during his opening speech at Makkah Halal Forum.

The honorable Minister also underscored the significant growth in the Halal industry, which presents a comprehensive strategic opportunity for all investors and businesses, both local and international, to cultivate sustainable growth and foster innovation and excellence., indicating: “The halal industry is currently one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world, with the halal products market—including food and cosmetics—reaching approximately $7 trillion in 2024. It is anticipated that this market will continue its upward trajectory, soaring to $10 trillion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate of 5.5%”.

In this regard, H.E. Mr. Fawaz Al-Harbi, Chairman of Halal Product Development Company (HPDC), announced the establishment of a new training center under the umbrella of the Halal Products Development Company (HPDC), contributing to achieving the Saudi Vision 2030 and strengthening the Kingdom’s competitive position in the global halal products market, stating: “At MHF2025, we’re pleased to announce the launch of the Halal Products Development Training Center, in partnership with Halal Center, aiming at promoting knowledge, enhancing skills, and preparing a national workforce capable of leading the future of the diverse sectors of halal industry”.

The Forum’s International Exhibition for Halal Products and Services exhibition serves as a promising global platform for international investment opportunities across the Halal sector, featuring over 150 exhibitors from around the world to showcase their Halal services and products, with an insightful vision to spotlight the ongoing developments within the Halal industries.

The forum also offers remarkable live cooking shows, where chefs from various corners of the globe gather to showcase their exceptional skills in preparing delicious and innovative dishes made from 100% halal ingredients, infusing the event with a delightful atmosphere of flavor and festivity.

In an effort to enhance collaborative efforts and create a more innovative and evolved economic future, the opening ceremony witnessed the signing of several agreements, including an agreement between the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development (ICCD), represented by its Secretary General, H.E. Mr. Yousef Khalawi, and Halal Product Development Company, represented by its CEO, H.E. Mr. Fahad Al Nuhait, aiming to activate joint cooperation and enhance integration in the development of the Halal industry, contributing to sustainable economic development on an international scale.

In this regard, a strategic partnership was signed between the Halal Product Development Company (HPDC), MHF25’s Official Sponsor, represented by its CEO, H.E. Mr. Fahad Al Nuhait, and the Federal Republic of Nigeria, represented by H.E. Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, Deputy chief of staff to the president of Federal Republic of Nigeria This agreement aims to develop avenues for mutual cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Nigeria across various Halal sectors, laying the foundation for a bright future for the global Halal industry.

Another agreement was signed for launching the International Halal Academy, between the Saudi Halal Center, represented by its CEO, H.E. Eng. Abdulaziz AlRushodi, along with the Islamic University of Madinah, represented by its President, Dr. Saleh Alagla, and Ahad Company for Halal Services, represented by its President, H.E. Mr. Feras Al Matrafi.

The second edition of Makkah Halal Forum, themed “Sustainable Development through Halal”, embodies a steadfast commitment to advancing the global Halal industry within the framework of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals UN SDGs. In this regard, we aim to continue our relentless efforts to create vast opportunities that will drive growth in the global Halal market, in collaboration with relevant institutions and organizations.

For more info, kindly visit the forum’s official website: www.makkahhalalforum.com