B57+ Forum Opens Opportunities in Halal Economy, Indonesia Targeted as Global Driver

The B57+ Asia Pacific Regional Chapter business forum is targeting the halal industry as a concrete step to make Indonesia the driving force of the global halal economy. General Chairman of the B57+ Asia Pacific Regional Chapter, Arsjad Rasjid, stated that in a world full of uncertainties, strengthening peace and prosperity has become more important. Therefore, a platform is needed that can build trust and bridge markets to encourage economic growth. “One of the most ready and potential markets is the halal economy,” Arsjad explained in Jakarta on Wednesday (22/4/2026). Arsjad emphasised the potential of the global halal economy by 2030, projected to reach USD 9.5 trillion. However, this potential can be more meaningful if built through organised, trusted, and connected collaboration, one of which is through the presence of B57+. “The mission of B57+ is simple but ambitious: translating collective strength into shared prosperity,” he said. “This is achieved through concrete trade, investment, and business connectivity,” Arsjad added. “Our task is to translate this potential into real economic benefits. There are many opportunities among Islamic countries and their partners that still require stronger institutional bridges and trust mechanisms,” Arsjad revealed. As part of the regional chapter’s duties in the Asia Pacific, Arsjad added that they will establish B57+ representatives in several non-OIC countries, including ASEAN nations such as Vietnam, as well as Australia and New Zealand. “We realise that this great goal cannot be achieved by us alone. This effort certainly requires collaboration and cooperation,” he concluded. As an effort to realise this, Arsjad held meetings with Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar and Minister of Creative Economy Teuku Riefky Harsya. Several representatives of ambassadors from B57+ member countries were also present, including the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Indonesia, Abdulla Salem Al Dhaheri. The meeting, which was also attended by several Islamic community organisations and economists, focused on discussions about the halal economy and Indonesia’s opportunities as the driving force of the global halal industry.