President Muizzu and ICCD Chief Explore Growth in Halal Tourism and Investment

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu met with the Secretary General of the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development (ICCD), Sheikh Yousef Hassan Khalawi, to discuss expanding the Maldives' role in the global halal economy and tourism sectors. During the meeting held at the President’s Office, both leaders focused on strengthening investment ties and enhancing capacity-building initiatives. A primary point of discussion was the strategic expansion of halal tourism, aiming to attract a broader demographic of Muslim travelers by integrating Islamic economic principles into the nation's tourism infrastructure. Sheikh Yousef Hassan Khalawi presented the President with a handwritten copy of the Holy Qur’an as a gesture of goodwill and cooperation during the visit. The ICCD, formerly known as the Islamic Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (ICCIA), is an international association under the umbrella of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). It represents private sector interests and business leaders across 57 Muslim-majority nations. Since its inception in 1977, the ICCD has worked to fortify trade, industrial, and economic bonds between member states. The organization specifically prioritizes the advancement of the halal economy, increasing cross-border investments, and providing critical support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). In the Maldives, the Maldives National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI) serves as the official representative within the association, bridging local businesses with the broader opportunities offered by the OIC network.