MAKKAH, Feb 16 (APP): The third edition of the Makkah Halal Forum 2026 witnessed the launch of the “Halal Academy” and the unveiling of the “Golden Halal” logo, a unified mark of excellence aimed at strengthening consumer confidence and elevating standards across the global halal industry.
The two initiatives represent a strategic step toward institutionalizing the sector, enhancing professional competencies, and establishing clear regulatory and quality benchmarks that reinforce the credibility and competitiveness of halal products in domestic and international markets.
Minister of Commerce Majid bin Abdullah Al-Kassabi inaugurated the forum, organized by the Manafe’a initiative under the theme “Halal: A Professional Industry.” The event took place at the Makkah Chamber of Commerce and Industry Exhibition and Events Center, drawing senior officials, industry leaders, regulatory authorities, and representatives of economic institutions from around the world.
In his address, Al-Kassabi stated that the forum reflects the qualitative transformation of the halal sector from a rapidly expanding market into an integrated, governance-driven industry founded on transparency and internationally recognized quality standards.
He noted that the Kingdom adopts a comprehensive strategic approach to consolidate its position as a global hub for halal industries through advanced legislative frameworks and regulatory modernization. He added that the Ministry of Commerce continues to foster a competitive ecosystem that supports innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth within this vital sector.
Abdullah Saleh Kamel, President of the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development, President of the Federation of Saudi Chambers, and Chairman of the Makkah Chamber, said the forum had evolved into an influential international platform for policy direction and decision-making. He described it as a strategic venue that contributes to redefining the halal industry and shaping a future vision commensurate with its expanding footprint in the global economy.
He added that halal transcends the concept of a conventional industry, representing instead a comprehensive global framework that harmonizes ethical values with economic advancement. Hosting the forum in Makkah, he noted, underscores the principles of integrity, quality, transparency, and commitment that define the sector and resonate strongly with today’s global consumers.
The forum also witnessed the signing of strategic memoranda of understanding, including an agreement between the Saudi Food and Drug Authority and the Halal Products Guarantee Agency of the Republic of Indonesia to enhance quality assurance mechanisms for halal products. Another memorandum was signed with the Central Islamic Council of Thailand to strengthen bilateral cooperation and expand technical collaboration in the halal sector.
These agreements mark a significant step toward harmonizing standards, reinforcing accreditation reliability, and broadening international recognition of certifications issued by the Kingdom.
The forum recorded broad international participation, with entities and companies from the United States, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Malaysia, and Turkey, reflecting the Kingdom’s growing stature as a focal point for sustainable investment in halal industries and as a bridge linking regional and global markets.
Through its comprehensive agenda integrating regulatory advancement, institutional empowerment, economic collaboration, and technological innovation, the Makkah Halal Forum 2026 further reinforced the Kingdom’s role as a central driver of growth in the global halal economy, in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030.