Event Title: Inspiring Change by Export-Oriented Halal Trade & Industry
Context: Global Halal Services Recognition as Certification Body by Pakistan Halal Authority
Date: July 20, 2023
Time: 14:00-17:00
Venue: Best Western Premier Hotel, Islamabad

1. Introduction

The Multi-Sectoral Stakeholder’s Policy Dialogue titled “Inspiring Change by Export-Oriented Halal Trade & Industry” was held on July 20, 2023, at the Best Western Premier Hotel in Islamabad. The dialogue was organized to discuss the growing importance of Halal certification and its implications on global trade, particularly in the context of Pakistan’s recognition of Global Halal Services as a certification body by the Pakistan Halal Authority. The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including policymakers, industry leaders, trade experts, and representatives from various organizations, to exchange insights and discuss strategies for enhancing Pakistan’s role in the global Halal industry.

2. Event Proceedings

2.1 Arrival of Guests & Networking (14:00-14:20)
The event began with the arrival of guests and networking opportunities, providing a platform for attendees to engage and establish connections with key players in the Halal industry.

2.2 Opening Session (14:20-14:50)

• Recitation of Holy Quran & National Anthem: The event commenced with a recitation of the Holy Quran by Daud Suleman Awan, followed by the National Anthem of Pakistan.
• Welcome Address: Mr. Akhtar A Bughio, Director General of the Pakistan Halal Authority, welcomed the participants and set the tone for the dialogue by emphasizing the importance of Halal certification in boosting Pakistan’s export potential.
• Concept Note – Policy Dialogue: Rana Awais Khan, CEO of Global Halal Services, presented the concept note, outlining the objectives of the dialogue and highlighting the significance of global recognition for Pakistan’s Halal certification bodies.
• Remarks by Distinguished Guests:
  • Mr. Saif Ur Rehman: Director Family Foods
  • Syed Waqas Anjum Jafri: Secretary General, Alkhidmat Foundation Pakistan
  • Mr. Abdullah Hamid Gul: Patron, National Alliance for Safe Food
  • H.E. Adam Mulawarman Tugio: Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia
  • Mr. Ahsan Iqbal: Federal Minister of Planning, Development & Special Initiatives

The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Dr. Rashid Aftab, Director of Riphah Institute of Public Policy.

2.3 Presentations on Global Halal Industry (14:50-15:30)
Two insightful presentations were delivered, focusing on innovation and trade within the Halal industry:

• Global Innovations & Halal Industry: Presented by Mr. Rizwan Buttar, Chief Innovation Officer at ZAUQ Group/FoodTrax, the presentation explored recent technological advancements and their impact on the Halal industry.
• Global Halal Industry & Pakistan – Import-Export Status: Mr. Muhammad Idrees Asghar, an International Trade Consultant, provided an analysis of Pakistan’s current standing in the global Halal trade, highlighting opportunities and challenges in the export-import landscape.

3. Key Session/Penal Discussion (15:30-16:10)

The focal point of the event was the panel discussion on “Global Trade; Halal Regulations, Issues, and Challenges Faced by Manufacturers/Traders”. The session featured the following panelists:

• H.E. Mr. Ihsan OVUT: Secretary General, OIC/SMIIC
• Ms. Ismat Gul Khattak: Director General, Pakistan National Accreditation Council
• Mr. Akhtar A. Bughio: Director General, Pakistan Halal Authority
• Mr. Hamed K. Latif: CEO, TTI Labs/Fahm Ul Halal
• Dr. Tahira Siddique: Deputy Director (Operations), Islamabad Food Authority
• Dr. Mufti Misbah Ullah Sabir: Head of Shariah Board, Global Halal Services

The panelists shared their perspectives on the evolving Halal regulations, the hurdles faced by manufacturers and traders in complying with these standards, and the role of certification bodies in facilitating international trade.

4. Consultation/Open House/QA Session (16:10-16:30)

Following the panel discussion, an open house consultation was held, allowing participants to pose questions and engage directly with the experts. The session provided valuable insights into the specific concerns of industry stakeholders and fostered a collaborative atmosphere for addressing challenges.

5. Closing Session (16:30-16:50)

The event concluded with closing remarks from several distinguished guests:

• Dr. Ghulam Muhammad Ali: Chairman, Pakistan Agricultural Research Center
• Mr. Anwar Hussain: CEO, Association for the Development of Local Governess
• Rabia Sikandar Khan: President, Cross Culture Asia
• Mr. Faad Waheed: Senior Vice President, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry
• Zahid Iqbal: Former Vice President, Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry
• Mr. Ahsan Zafer Bakhtawri: President, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industries
• Capt. (R) Muhammad Asif: Additional Secretary, National Food Security and Research Division

The vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Hafiz Rehan Nadeem, COO of Global Halal Services, who expressed gratitude to all participants and reiterated the commitment to advancing Pakistan’s Halal trade capabilities.

6. Conclusion

The Multi-Sectoral Stakeholder’s Policy Dialogue provided a significant platform for discussing the strategic importance of Halal certification in boosting export-oriented trade. The event highlighted the need for continued innovation, regulatory alignment, and international cooperation to position Pakistan as a key player in the global Halal market. The dialogue underscored the collective responsibility of stakeholders to inspire change and contribute to the sustainable growth of the Halal industry.