Thai Islamic Bank Gives 1.2 Billion Baht in Loans For Halal Manufacturers

Posted in: Asia, Media & Events, Finance & Investment

BANGKOK, -- The Islamic Bank of Thailand (IBT) plans to lend 1.2 billion baht in 2009 to promote halal food and product manufacturings while exploring sukuk or Islamic bonds through "petro money" from Middle East investors. Its chairman Professor Dr Somchai Virunhaphol said the fund for halal manufacturers would then be doubled in two years as there are vast potential to be tapped.


Islamic Banking Gaining Strength, Says Surin Pitsuwan

Posted in: Asia, Finance & Investment
BANGKOK -- The Islamic financing system is expected to grow faster than the previous 15 to 20 percent annually as world economies look at it as an alternative to western models which is in turmoil now, said Asean Secretary-General Surin Pitsuwan. Surin said while the world financial system was in turmoil and sending shock waves across the globe, trend in Islamic banking and halal food industry was encouraging and positive.

Thailand B2.4bn for halal lending

Posted in: Asia, Finance & Investment
The Islamic Bank of Thailand will set aside 2.4 billion baht next year to help finance halal food businesses, according to managing director Dheerasak Suwannayos.

Zahid Urges Malaysian Firms to Expand Into OIC Countries

Posted in: Asia, Finance & Investment
Malaysia: Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi Wednesday urged local firms involved in Islamic based businesses to expand their business to the member countries of the Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC). The Islamic business and financial market offers an alternative venue for Malaysian companies in the midst of the challenges brought by the current global financial crisis, he said.

Islamic finance in focus at Abu Dhabi event - Billion dollar sector to be discussed during forum at Halal World Expo

Posted in: Middle East & Africa, Media & Events, Finance & Investment
A dedicated forum at next month’s Halal World Expo is throwing the spotlight on the billion dollar Islamic finance sector in a move which will be of great interest to UAE businesses and potential investors.

The GCC’s leading event dedicated to the global Halal industry, which takes place from 11-13 November 2008 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, organised by IIR Middle East, is set to feature three illuminating seminars on Shari’ah compliant banking and financial services.