The government wants Pakistani halal businesses to expand into global markets by focusing on specific products, industries and countries where local companies can compete and grow.

The issue was discussed during a meeting between Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb and Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development Secretary-General Shaikh Yousef Hassan Khalawi on Thursday.

The meeting covered economic cooperation, the global halal economy, Islamic finance and greater private-sector engagement.

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 international private-sector and institutional partners.

The two sides discussed opportunities for Pakistani companies in global halal markets, including food, fashion, tourism, services and other consumer sectors.

Aurangzeb stressed the need to move beyond a broad focus on the halal sector and identify specific products, industries and international markets with strong potential for Pakistani businesses.

The meeting also covered Pakistan’s Islamic finance sector and possible cooperation with international platforms focused on Islamic economics and finance. Participants emphasized developing commercially viable opportunities and improving access to international markets.

Khalawi shared international experience in halal business development, sustainable tourism and Islamic economic cooperation, with a focus on matching sector-specific opportunities with global demand.

The participants also discussed international conferences, business forums and other platforms that could help Pakistani businesses connect with global companies and expand their international presence.

Aurangzeb said continued private-sector engagement would be important for identifying practical areas of cooperation and encouraged stronger links between Pakistani businesses and international networks facilitated by the Islamic Chamber.