Here's a roundup of key developments across the halal industry ecosystem during the month of November

Editor's note: Has hijab fashion taken centre stage? Seems quite like it. Indonesia Hijabfest returned for the 11th time in November, becoming a platform for enthusiasts and designers to showcase modest clothing. It has also set its sights on Qatar's investment to bolster key sectors. 

In other news, Malaysia's TheNoor aims to shift its HQ to Madinah in what is a testament to its growing technological might. Meanwhile, Saudia has unveiled dedicated Umrah websites for US and Canadian markets, to facilitate religious travel.

Company News

Indonesia
Indonesia Hijabfest is back again
Indonesia Hijabfest this year returned to support the hijab and modest fashion industry.

As the first hijab expo in Indonesia, the 11th edition took place from November 2-5, at Sabuga, Bandung.

The event, which began in 2012, served as a platform for designers, business professionals, and hijab enthusiasts, showcasing a diverse range of Muslim clothing for women and children. (Tempo)

New Zealand
New Zealand's first hijab fashion show showcased modest multicultural designs
Le Amana, the first Hijab Fashion Show in Aotearoa (New Zealand), showcased the elegance of modest wear in South Auckland.

The event aimed to encourage the acceptance of the multicultural head covering, fostering confidence and comfort among hijab-wearing women.

Co-founder Feroza Rahman shared this vision during an interview on 531pi's Pacific Days, highlighting the show's commitment to empowering women through fashion. (PMN)

UAE
Development program launched for UAE-based Arabic language, Islamic education teachers
The Emirates College for Advanced Education (ECAE), in collaboration with Mohamed bin Zayed University for Humanities (MBZUH) and Emirates Schools Establishment (ESE), has launched the Ethraa Professional Development Program.

Geared towards Arabic Language and Islamic Education teachers, the program aims to boost their specialized abilities. (Zawya)

Saudi Arabia
TheNoor to shift headquarters to Madinah
Taibah Valley Company, associated with Taibah University, has entered into a partnership with TheNoor, a Malaysian technology and Islamic lifestyle company.

As part of this strategic move, TheNoor will relocate its headquarters to Madinah, benefiting from a technical environment conducive to innovation. (Halal Focus)

Trade Developments

Indonesia
Indonesia’s Muslim-friendly tourism microsite launch marks new beginning 
The Indonesia Muslim-friendly Tourism (IMFT) microsite was unveiled at the 5th International Halal Tourism Summit during the Indonesia Sharia Economic Festival.

Developed through collaboration between CrescentRating, the Halal Tourism Association of Indonesia (PPHI), Bank of Indonesia, National Committee for Sharia Economics and Finance (KNEKS), and the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, Republic of Indonesia (Kemenparekraf RI), the microsite offers Muslim travelers a tailored resource to plan authentic and immersive trips to Indonesia.  (Travel Daily Media)

Indonesia / Qatar
Indonesia eyes Qatari FDI in hospitality, tourism sectors
Indonesia aims to strengthen collaboration with Qatar in hospitality and tourism sectors, with a focus on the multi-trillion global halal industry and the growing trade volume between the two nations.

Indonesian Ambassador Ridwan Hassan emphasized the significance of this cooperation during Hospitality Qatar 2023, held at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre until November 8. (Gulf Times)

Perak (Malaysia)
MOU will promote Muslim-friendly tourism in Perak
The Ipoh City Council, with a newly signed memorandum of understanding (MOU) for Muslim-friendly tourism, is targeting a minimum of 150,000 Muslim visitors in the coming year.

Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad highlighted the significance of the MOU as a strategic step by the Ipoh City Council to enhance tourism in Perak, particularly in Ipoh, for the upcoming year. (The Star)

Operational Developments

Saudi Arabia
Saudia announces Umrah websites in America and Canada
Saudia has introduced dedicated Umrah websites for US and Canadian markets, offering enhanced support and user-friendly booking services for pilgrims embarking on Umrah and Hajj journeys.

The airline, unveiling these platforms during the World Travel Market in London, aims to cater specifically to the needs of North American pilgrims, showcasing its commitment to facilitating seamless travel experiences for Umrah and Hajj participants from the US and Canada. (Arabian Business)

Education

Qatar
Education ministry, Qatar University to develop Islamic education curricula for schools 
The Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE) and Qatar University (QU) have entered into an agreement to collaborate on the development of a curriculum for Islamic education in public schools.

The partnership aims to enhance "The Student's Handbook" and "The Teacher's Guide" for all stages from grade 1 to 12, marking a crucial step in advancing Islamic education in the country. (Mena FN)

Prominent Muslim organizations in India have decried the decision to ban the storage and sale of halal-certified products in the state of Uttar Pradesh, denouncing it 'absurd' and 'unfortunate.' 

Religious bodies have also forewarned of the ban's potential impact on exports to Muslim nations. 

The Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind Halal Trust, the halal certification unit of Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, claimed that the government had not sent 'any notice or circular before the move'. The ban infringes upon citizens' fundamental right to consume food in accordance with their faith, it added. 

Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, established in 1919, is a eminent socio-religious organisation of Indian Muslims. 

“The Uttar Pradesh government’s action is evidently based on prejudice against the Muslim community and Islam, irrational, and against friendly and social goodwill,” said Mohammad Salim Engineer, vice president of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind. 

Earlier this month, Uttar Pradesh banned the production, storage, distribution, and sale of products, carrying a halal certification, with immediate effect. The ban exempts meat and products meant for export. 

Uttar Pradesh is India’s most populous state, ruled by the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party. 

The ban follows a police complaint filed by a member of the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM), blaming prominent halal certifying organizations in the country of certifying products as halal to boost sales among Muslims.

The complaint targeted prominent organizations such as Halal India Private Limited Chennai, Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind Halal Trust Delhi, Halal Council of India Mumbai, and Jamiat Ulama Maharashtra. It alleged that these organizations were exploiting religious sentiments of consumers for financial gains.

In response, the Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind Halal Trust dismissed the allegations as 'baseless' and an attempt to tarnish the image of halal in India.

Speaking to Salaam Gateway, Niaz A. Farooqui, CEO of Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind Halal Trust, underscored the global significance of halal-certified products, and emphasized their positive impact on India's role in exports and tourism, constituting a $3.5 trillion industry.

“These baseless allegations could harm India's standing in the Muslim world,” he said, adding that the certification, serves not only as a mandatory requirement for many importing countries but also aids tourists visiting India in making informed product choices.

Refuting claims that halal certification favors only one community, Farooqui highlighted that many non-Muslim-run companies also use halal certificates. He argued that certification is a matter of choice for individuals and manufacturers, ensuring the availability of need-based products in the market, and stressed on the importance of recognizing global standards in halal commerce.

"We abide by government regulations, as highlighted in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry notification, which mandates that all halal certification bodies must be registered with NABCB (National Accreditation Board for Certification Bodies under the Quality Council of India). This is a significant milestone that the Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind Halal Trust has successfully attained," stated Farooqui.

All their financial transactions were meticulously recorded, accompanied by appropriate GST and income tax payments, and subject to thorough auditing, Farooqui added. “This meticulous approach ensures absolute legality and transparency in our operations.”

Mohamed Jinna, CEO of Halal India Private Limited, states that halal certification not only upholds religious principles but harbors significant potential in positioning Indian products that meet international food standards in the global market.

"Halal products appeal to a broader consumer base, supporting our country's economy and promoting a sustainable food industry."

He also clarified that contrary to what has been alleged in the complaint and in sections of the news media, halal-certifying bodies do not run a parallel food quality certifying system. 'That's the role of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Our role is to look into the products and verify whether the products and their source are halal or not halal,' he added.

He further mentioned that most of the products his company certifies as halal are for the export market.

Wahed, a global Shariah-compliant fintech, has launched in the UAE, as the country looks to further its ascendancy as an innovation hub. 

The company said in a statement that it received its financial services permission (FSP) from Abu Dhabi Global Market’s regulatory authority. 

Wahed will enable UAE-based customers to plow funds in diversified Shariah-compliant portfolios via its mobile app. The company has raised more than $75 million in funding from family offices, institutions and backers, including Dubai Cultiv8, international footballer Paul Pogba and UFC champion Khabib Nurmagomedov. 

Junaid Wahedna, CEO of Wahed said that the company was committed to contributing to an increase in the savings culture amongst youth and professionals in a Shariah-compliant manner. 

Arvind Ramamurthy, chief of markets at ADGM, added that the launch of Wahed in the UAE brings next-gen financial services and strengthens the growing digital economy. 

Wahed, since inception, has onboarded more than 300,000 customers in the UK, US, the UAE, Malaysia, and beyond.

The Arab world enjoys an advantageous demographic profile, with a third of its population under 30. According to the International Monetary Fund, fintech revenues in the Middle East, North Africa and Pakistan are expected to increase from $1.5 billion in 2022 to between $3.5-4.5 billion by 2025. 

Here's a roundup of key developments across the OIC ecosystem during the first two weeks of November

Editor's note: Cross-border agreements have historically been a stronghold in the Middle East, leveraging strategic strengths of partner countries for transnational gains. If anything, this has gained momentum in recent times. 

Qatar held key discussions to bolster trade and investment with Senegal, and is looking to review ties with Lebanon. Other GCC nations Oman and Saudi look to establish projects in economic zones, while the UAE and Jordan sign a massive investment MoU to boost bilateral cooperation. 

Trade Developments

Qatar / Senegal
Qatar, Senegal review trade, investment ties
Qatar's Minister of Commerce and Industry, Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Qassim Al Thani, held discussions with the visiting Minister of Commerce, Consumer Affairs, and Small and Medium Enterprises of Senegal, Abdou Karim Fofana.

The meeting centered on mutual interests, focusing on bolstering collaboration in trade, investment, and industry between the two nations. (The Peninsula Qatar)

Saudi Arabia
Friday’s Saudi-African Summit set to establish strategic cooperation in key sectors
The upcoming Saudi-African Summit in Riyadh is anticipated to play a pivotal role in fostering strategic cooperation across political, economic, investment, security, and cultural domains, assert knowledgeable sources.

The summit aims to strengthen mutual interests, promoting development and stability between Saudi Arabia and African nations. (Zawya)

Bahrain 
Bahrain-Bosnia trade ties to get a boost with reciprocal visa regime
The anticipated implementation of a reciprocal visa system between Bahrain and Bosnia and Herzegovina is poised to bolster bilateral trade and investments.

Jawad Al Hawaj, Chairman of the Bahrain-Bosnia and Herzegovina Friendship and Business Society, anticipates that this move will significantly contribute to fostering cooperation in the realms of economy, tourism, and culture. (Zawya)

Oman / Saudi Arabia
Oman, Saudi Arabia discuss opportunities to establish projects in economic zones
In Riyadh, discussions unfolded on Tuesday regarding the potential for strengthening economic cooperation and exploring investment opportunities within the economic zones, free zones, and industrial cities of the Sultanate of Oman.

Held at the Federation of Saudi Chambers, the meeting convened a delegation from Oman's economic zones, free zones, and industrial cities, alongside members of the Saudi-Omani Business Council and prominent representatives from major companies and businessmen in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. (Zawya)

Qatar / Azerbaijan
Qatar, Azerbaijan sign agreement to enhance labour ties
Qatar and Azerbaijan have inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in labor-related matters. The agreement, signed on the sidelines of the Islamic Conference of Labour Ministers in Baku, outlines a collaborative strategy between the two countries' labor ministries.

The MoU emphasizes the exchange of experiences, research, and mutual visits, particularly in areas such as labor relations, inspection, and occupational safety and health. (Zawya)

Egypt / Malaysia
Egypt, Malaysia to boost cooperation in petroleum field
Egypt's Cooperation Petroleum Company (Copetrole), a subsidiary of the Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation (EGPC), has entered into a cooperation protocol with Malaysia's Petronas to strengthen collaboration in the petroleum sector.

The agreement outlines joint efforts in exchanging experiences, with a particular emphasis on research and development. Additionally, both entities will provide consultations on new investments, fostering a mutually beneficial partnership in the field of petroleum. (Zawya)

Qatar / Lebanon
Qatar and Lebanon review trade ties
Qatar's Minister of Commerce and Industry, Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Qassim Al Thani, held discussions with the Caretaker Minister of Economy and Trade of Lebanon, Amin Salam.

The meeting focused on mutual interests, with an emphasis on enhancing cooperation in trade, investment, and industry between the two nations.  (The Peninsula Qatar)

Tajikistan
Tajikistan and Islamic Development Bank leaders to advance economic ties
The President of the Islamic Development Bank, Dr. Muhammad Al Jasser, engaged in discussions with the President of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmon, to strengthen existing ties and promote economic collaboration.

The meeting, preceding the OIC extraordinary Islamic summit on November 11 in Riyadh, aimed at enhancing the partnership. President Rahmon expressed satisfaction with the Islamic Development Bank's contributions to socio-economic development projects in Tajikistan and its ongoing support in addressing global challenges.  (IsDB)

The Gambia
IsDB and The Gambia fortify development ties
President of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), Dr. Muhammad Al Jasser, engaged in discussions with Gambian President Adama Barrow in Riyadh, focusing on strengthening cooperation between IsDB and The Gambia.

The meeting built on their previous encounter earlier this year, where they assessed progress on key infrastructural and educational projects funded by IsDB.  (IsDB)

ESG Developments

Azerbaijan
ACWA Power teams up with UAE’s Masdar to develop clean energy projects in Azerbaijan
ACWA Power of Saudi Arabia is set to collaborate with Masdar (Abu Dhabi Future Energy Co.) to develop 500 megawatts of renewable energy projects in Azerbaijan, as per a memorandum of understanding signed with the State Oil Co. of Azerbaijan.

The joint venture aligns with Azerbaijan's ambitions for net-zero emissions and contributes to global decarbonization efforts. (Arab News)

Investment

UAE / Jordan
UAE and Jordan sign $2bn investment MoU to boost bilateral cooperation
The UAE's Ministry of Investment has inked a $2 billion memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Jordan, establishing a framework for investment cooperation.

The agreement encompasses investment in infrastructure and development projects, with a focus on strengthening the enduring strategic partnership between the two nations. (Arab News)

Here's a roundup of key developments across the Islamic finance ecosystem during the first three weeks of November

Editor's note: With the UAE set to host the COP climate summit later this month, Islamic financial institutions are taking cue and accelerating down the 'green road'. Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB) rolled out a $500 million green sukuk, as well as a three-year ESG strategy.

In other news, Australia's first ever sukuk active ETF was launched, while Islamic banking window of Oman's BankDhofar launched a new debit card campaign. Malaysia's Maybank rolled out its Islamic wealth management hub in Singapore. 

Company News

Australia
Hejaz Group launches Australia’s first ever Sukuk Active ETF 
Hejaz Group has introduced Australia's inaugural Sukuk active exchange-traded fund (active ETF), the Hejaz Sukuk Active ETF (Managed Fund), available on the ASX starting November 2, 2023.

This marks the country's first Shariah-compliant bond alternative for investors, allowing participation in a Islamically-aligned fixed-income asset similar to traditional bond ETFs. (Zawya)

Pakistan
Meezan Bank collaborates with SAFCO Microfinance Company 
Islamic lender Meezan Bank has partnered with SAFCO Microfinance Company to launch its first Islamic microfinance branch, 'Yaqeen,' in Hyderabad.

The collaboration involves Meezan Bank providing 100 million rupees in financing, technical support, and training for product development and capacity building. (Urdu Point)

Oman
Maisarah Islamic Banking introduces innovative debit card promotion campaign
Maisarah Islamic Banking Services, the Islamic banking window of BankDhofar, has launched a debit card campaign offering customers the opportunity to win 100 Omani riyals for the same amount spent. 

The initiative, valid until end of the year, aims to boost debit card usage in Point of Sale (POS) and online transactions. (Zawya)

Singapore
Maybank Group launches regional offshore hub for Islamic wealth management solutions
Maybank Group has inaugurated its Islamic Wealth Management (IWM) regional offshore hub for solutions through Maybank Singapore, extending its IWM reach beyond Malaysia and Indonesia.

This move is part of Maybank Group's M25+ Strategy, aiming for global leadership in Islamic finance and wealth management. (Hubbis)

Jordan
‘Abu-Ghazaleh for Technology’ signs cooperation agreement with Aoun Islamic Finance Company
Talal Abu-Ghazaleh for Technology (TAGTech) has entered into a cooperation agreement with Aoun Islamic Finance Company to provide advanced and integrated financing solutions to TAGTech's clientele.

The agreement outlines that Aoun Company will deliver financing solutions adhering to Islamic Sharia principles. (Zawya)

Pakistan
Meezan Bank with SAFCO Microfinance Co launches Islamic microfinance services
Meezan Bank, an Islamic bank in Pakistan, has partnered with SAFCO Microfinance Company Private Limited (SMCL) to launch its first Islamic microfinance branch named 'Yaqeen' in Hyderabad, Pakistan.

This collaboration includes Meezan Bank providing 100 million rupees in financing, technical support for product development, capacity building, and training. (Business Recorder)

Trade Developments

Philippines
BSP-led body to further promote Islamic finance in Philippines
The Islamic Finance Coordination Forum (IFCF) has affirmed its commitment to advancing Islamic banking and finance in the Philippines.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) announced that the IFCF, led by BSP Assistant Governor Arifa Ala, plans to conduct market studies and roadshows to promote Islamic banking and finance to both local and international stakeholders. (Pakistan Observer)

Investment

Nigeria
President Tinubu secures multi-billion dollar In infrastructure funding From Islamic Bank
President Bola Tinubu is in advanced talks with the Islamic Development Bank in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, to secure a multi-billion dollar infrastructure finance facility.

The funds will support a diverse range of infrastructure projects at both federal and sub-national levels in Nigeria.

The negotiations, following substantive discussions with the Islamic Development Bank's Vice-President Dr. Mansur Muhtar, are a crucial step in bolstering Nigeria's infrastructure development. (Leadership)

Technology

Indonesia
Sami Al-Suwailem highlights prospects of digital transformation for Islamic finance
Dr. Sami Al-Suwailem, Acting Director General of the Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI), delivered a keynote speech at a seminar on enhancing digitalization in Islamic financial institutions during the 10th Indonesia Sharia Economic Festival (ISEF) in Jakarta.

The event, jointly organized by Bank Indonesia, IsDB, and Islamic Financial Services Board (IFSB), focused on the pivotal role of digitalization in ensuring stability and sustainability in the Islamic financial system. (Pakistan Observer)

ESG Developments

UAE
ADIB successfully issues $500m green sukuk
Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB) has successfully raised $500 million through a green sukuk offering, establishing the world's first green USD sukuk issued by a financial institution.

The five-year senior sukuk, rated A+ by Fitch at a profit rate of 5.695 percent per annum, will be listed on the London Stock Exchange's International Securities Market and Sustainable Bond Market. (Gulf Today)

UAE
Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank unveils robust ESG strategy
Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB) has pledged to elevate its sustainable finance objectives, emphasizing its commitment to responsible banking practices.

The bank unveiled a three-year environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategy, detailing its sustainability agenda.

ADIB aims to contribute to the transition to a low-carbon economy, aligning with the growing corporate emphasis on sustainable financing. (Zawya)

Oman
Sohar Islamic partners with Zakat Authority
Sohar International's Islamic Window has reiterated its commitment to community service by donating laptops to the Zakat Authority.

The laptop handover ceremony occurred at a gathering held at the Ministry of Endowment and Religious Affairs. This initiative reflects the bank's dedication to enhancing the role played by Zakat committees in the distribution, governance, and control of Zakat duties. (Zawya)

Philippines is looking at creating additional halal champions in the country to shore up its regional profile.  

Secretary of Philippines' department of trade and industry (DTI) Alfredo Pascual eyes more 'halal champions' to direct the country towards becoming the most halal-friendly trade and investment destination in the Asia Pacific region.

'Halal champions' are enterprises or individuals that are already thriving in the halal industry both locally and globally, Pascual said at the Philippine Halal Economy Festival held this week, Philippine News Agency reported. 

These will help the country achieve its target for the local halal industry to grow to 230 billion pesos in trade and investments, generating 120,000 jobs over the next five years.

"Our micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, or MSMEs, is also one of our halal champions. MSMEs are poised to reap significant benefits as we take substantial steps toward their growth in size, scope, and income," the DTI chief said.

The government has enacted laws that will make the Philippines a more investor-friendly country, including Muslims investors around the world. These injunctions include the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) Law, as well as the amendments to the Foreign Investment Act, Public Service Act and Retail Trade Liberalization Act, he added. 

"These laws give more incentives to Muslim investors from around the world, as we invite them to establish and operate their halal enterprises here in the Philippines."

The Philippine Halal Industry Development Plan, a national strategy to reach its trade and investment as well as jobs creation targets, is expected to be announced soon.