Halal exports are experiencing strong global momentum, with trade volumes rising threefold in 2025 compared to the previous year, according to Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov at the opening of Russia–Islamic World: KazanForum 2026 in Tatarstan, Russia.
Minnikhanov added that the halal sector has evolved beyond food production and now represents a much broader economic and cultural framework that shapes global cooperation.
“Today, halal represents a comprehensive way of life that reflects deep spiritual and cultural values and unites millions of people around the world.”
He noted that the region is home to more than 150 halal-certified producers, with export performance reaching 45 million dollars last year, thus marking significant year-on-year growth. He added that the forum would enable continued collaboration among industry players, which is expected to accelerate market expansion.
The forum, now in its 17th edition, brings together around 100 companies from across Russia and from foreign countries to serve as a platform for business networking and trade development across sectors linked to the halal economy.
Russia’s Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Maxim Valerievich Markovich, stated that there is significant agricultural and food trade cooperation with Islamic nations.
Markovich said: “We have a great potential to expand the availability of these goods. The foundation for the consistent expansion of Russian food exports is increased collaboration with the business sector.”
Secretary General of the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development, Youssef Hassan Khalawi, also mentioned that the halal concept extends beyond products, emphasising ethical principles, trust, and long-term value systems in global business practices.
International trade organisations described the forum as a strategic space for building partnerships and supporting shared economic development across participating regions.
Exhibitors at the event also reported strong international interest, with visitors from Muslim-majority countries and Africa contributing to increased commercial activity throughout the exhibition.
