The government has called for Pakistani halal businesses to expand into international markets by focusing on specific products, industries and countries where local companies can compete effectively and achieve sustainable growth.
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb made the remarks during a meeting with Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development Secretary-General Shaikh Yousef Hassan Khalawi. The meeting focused on strengthening Pakistan’s role in the rapidly growing global halal economy.
Khalawi briefed the finance minister on the Islamic Chamber’s engagement with business communities, including those in non-OIC countries, and its efforts to connect Muslim businesses with private-sector and institutional partners.
During the meeting, participants discussed opportunities for Pakistani businesses in halal food, fashion, tourism, services and other consumer markets.
Aurangzeb emphasized that Pakistan should move beyond a broad approach to the halal sector and instead identify specific products, industries and international markets where Pakistani companies have strong potential to compete.
He stressed the importance of developing commercially viable opportunities and improving market access to help local businesses establish a stronger presence internationally.
The meeting also covered Pakistan’s Islamic finance sector and potential cooperation with international platforms involved in Islamic economics and finance.
Khalawi shared international experiences related to halal business development, sustainable tourism and Islamic economic cooperation. He highlighted the importance of matching sector-specific opportunities with international demand.
Participants also discussed international conferences, business forums and other platforms that could help Pakistani businesses connect with global companies and investors.
Aurangzeb said continued engagement with the private sector would be essential for identifying practical areas of cooperation.
He encouraged stronger connections between Pakistani businesses and international networks facilitated by the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development.
The government aims to use these international linkages to help Pakistani companies identify new markets, strengthen exports and benefit from growing demand for halal products and services worldwide.
