Saudi Arabia signs 13 agreements at Makkah Halal Forum 2025

By Ibrahim Khazen and Rania Abu Shamala

RIYADH (AA) - Saudi Arabia has signed 13 agreements on the sidelines of the Makkah Halal Forum 2025 to strengthen trade relations, enhance economic cooperation, and leverage artificial intelligence technologies in the halal economy sector.

According to the state news agency SPA, the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (Modon) inked two investment agreements in the food industries sector during its participation in the 3-day forum, which concluded on Thursday.

The two agreements were part of the 13 deals signed by Saudi companies during the forum to facilitate business connections between entrepreneurs, institutions, and commercial companies, SPA said.

The agreements, whose parties were not disclosed, aim to support business development, drive economic growth across various sectors, establish a scientific framework for the halal industry, and develop related educational and scientific resources.

Additionally, the agreements include utilizing artificial intelligence to accelerate innovation in the halal sector while ensuring alignment with Islamic values and global standards.

During his opening speech at the forum on Wednesday, Saudi Minister for Commerce Majid bin Abdullah Al-Qabasi said that the halal sector is among the fastest-growing industries worldwide.

He noted that the global halal products market reached $7 trillion in 2024 and is expected to reach $10 trillion by 2030, with an annual growth rate of 5.5%.

Al-Qasabi added that the halal industry is no longer limited to Islamic countries but has gained global interest due to its quality standards and adherence to health and religious requirements.

Participants in this year’s edition included major halal accreditation bodies, including the Standards and Metrology Institute for Islamic Countries (SMIIC). Türkiye plays a key role in the Istanbul-based institute, contributing to harmonizing halal standards and facilitating cross-border trade.