Lembaga Tabung Haji recognised for business zakat contribution

Source: TH. TH received an IKTIRAF award for its zakat contribution to LZS.

Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) has received one of the inaugural Muzakki Recognition (IKTIRAF) awards introduced by the Lembaga Zakat Selangor (LZS) as a sign of appreciation towards muzakki (zakat contributors) in Selangor, Malaysia.

TH and 33 corporate bodies received the IKTIRAF Berlian (Diamond) recognition for contributing more than RM1,000,000 in business zakat to LZS on 28 December 2021.

The IKTIRAF award has four categories:

- IKTIRAF Diamond - Appreciation to muzakki who have given zakat of more than RM1,000,000

- IKTIRAF Gold - Appreciation to muzakki who have given zakat valued between RM500,000 to RM999,999

- IKTIRAF Silver - Appreciation to muzakki who have given zakat worth between RM100,000 to RM499,999

- Bronze IKTIRAF - Appreciation to muzakki who have given zakat from RM50,000 to RM99,999.

Those present at the ceremony included the Chairman of the Selangor Islamic Religious Council (MAIS), Tan Sri Dato 'Seri Abdul Aziz Mohd Yusof; Dato' Seri Utama Diraja Mufti of Selangor, Dato' Dr Anhar Opir; LZS Chairman Tan Sri Syed Anwar Jamalullail, and LZS Deputy Chairman Tan Sri Dato’ Setia Ambrin Buang. LZS CEO Saipolyazan M. Yusop was also present.

Saudi Real Estate Refinance COmpany issues sukuk to support housing market lenders

The Saudi Real Estate Refinance Company (SRC) has issued sukuk worth SAR2 billion to support lenders in the housing market, with the aim to further expand home ownership. The offer was guaranteed by KSA's Ministry of Finance.

The 10-year sukuk has a fixed profit rate of 3.04% and was marketed to Saudi institutional investors. The offer was oversubscribed 2.5 times.

Fabrice Susini, CEO of SRC, which is wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), said: "The very positive reception in the market for our sukuk demonstrates strong confidence in the Saudi housing market and economy, and robust investor support for our business model as home ownership continues to increase. The funding raised will enable us to expand our relationships with home finance lenders, as Saudi Arabia moves closer to its target of achieving 70% home ownership among Saudi nationals by 2030."

Susini added: "Our latest sukuk issuance also adds further depth to the Saudi fixed income market in line with the goals of the Financial Sector Development Program (FSDP) as part of Vision 2030."

SRC's new sukuk was issued under its SAR10 billion Sukuk Programme, under which SRC can issue sovereign-guaranteed instruments targeting local investors. Its first sukuk offerings under the programme were issued in March 2021 in two tranches of seven and 10 years respectively, totalling SAR4 billion.

In-person Eid prayer slots fully booked in Singapore

The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis) has announced that all available slots for Eid al-Adha prayers at local mosques have been booked.

The organisation said on Facebook that 11,550 slots were at mosques designated Safer Mosques booked by 9.50 am, and the remaining 6,630 slots at other mosques taken up by 11.04 am.

Those who could not get a space in person at mosques can watch the Mufti’s sermon on the morning of Eid al-Adha (20 July) on SalamSG TV.

KSA welcomes first Hajj pilgrims for Tawaf

The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) announced on July 17 that the first batch of Hajj pilgrims have arrived at the Grand Holy Mosque in Makkah to perform Tawaf Al-Qudum (the circumnambulation of the Ka'abah on arrival).

The SPA cited the Director of Crowds Department at the Grand Holy Mosque, Eng. Osama bin Mansour Al-Hujaili, who said that preparations are complete to receive pilgrims to perform Tawaf Al-Qudum on Dhulhijjah 7, 1442. Multiple locations have been set up to accommodate 11,000 pilgrims in entering the Tawaf (circumambulation) area.

Eng. Al-Hujaili also shared that over 500 employees have taken part in receiving pilgrims from the three gathering centers.

The KSA Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced this week that 60,000 pilgrims may perform Hajj in 1442.

Other stipulations include:

- Existing KSA residents of all nationalities, or KSA citizens.

- Pilgrims must be free of chronic diseases.

- Aged 18 to 65

- Vaccinated, in accordance with the instructions and procedures followed in KSA.

Hajj plans to integrate pandemic concerns

Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz, KSA Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Hajj Higher Committee, has approved the general security plan related to Hajj 2021, which integrates pandemic procedures, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) has reported.

The plan is in line with the directives of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz and HRH Crown Prince, for whom Hajj rituals should be performed in a way that maintains pilgrim security and safety.

In a separate update, SPA reported that unauthorised access to the Grand Mosque, central area surrounding it and the Holy Sites (Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafat) from 25/11/1442H to 13/12/1442H will be fined SAR10,000 with the fine doubled for repeated violations. The provisions and fines related to violators of preventive measures and protocols during the pandemic are aimed at limiting the spread of COVID-19 during this year’s Hajj.

Hajj will be held from 8 to 13 Dhulhijjah (the 12th Islamic month), roughly corresponding to 17-22 July. The start of Dhulhijjah is contingent on the sighting of the new moon at the end of the preceding month of Dhulqa'adah (the 11th Islamic month).

Full details for Korban 2021 announced in Singapore

A total of 51 mosques* in Singapore will offer their services to facilitate qurban for 2021, the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis) has announced.

As with 2020, no livestock will be imported into Singapore. Instead, mosques will facilitate arrangements for the ritual to be performed in Australia, with the meat to be chilled and subsequently transported to Singapore. Mosques are partnering individual suppliers licensed by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) for the import process.

Mosques and appointed vendors participating in this year's modified qurban, must comply with the food safety requirements of SFA for the importation, storage and distribution of meat products. Standard operating procedures will be adopted, observing high hygiene standards, staggering distribution and collection slots, strictly following prevailing national safety measures and guidelines.

Each mosque will offer up to 120 sheep. This year, each sheep will be priced between S$320-S$370. Payments are to be made directly to each mosque.

The individual mosques can be contacted directly for registration details. Walk-in registrations are available but strictly on an appointment basis only, to comply with mosque's safe management procedures. Online registration for ends 13 July 2021, subject to availability on a first-come first-served basis. Individuals who wish to perform qurban can register directly with any one of the listed mosques.

Those who have successfully registered will receive their chilled and pre-packed meat after the tashrik days**, beginning 24 July 2021. A portion of the meat will also be distributed to Muis' zakat beneficiaries. For distribution to the poor and needy, mosques will facilitate contactless deliveries to minimise contact.

The theme for Korban 2021 will be Radiating the Spirit of Caring and Kindness. As qurban is the act of giving by sharing qurban meat with the less fortunate, Korban 2021 will feature a more extended distribution period, from Eid al-Adha to mid-August during the COVID-19 pandemic. To achieve this, the Singapore Mosques Korban Committee (JKMS) will mobilise mosque befrienders and volunteers to distribute Korban meat strictly following safe management guidelines, reducing likelihoods of contact from interactions.

Details:

View the list of mosques offering modified qurban in 2021, together with pricing.

*Nine more mosques are participating in Korban 2021 compared to 2020.

**The tashrik days are 11, 12 and 13 Dhulhijjah, the three days after Eid al-Adha.

Marrybrown to manage cafe for Malaysia Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai

The Malaysia Pavilion has announced that the largest halal quick serving restaurant chain in the world, Malaysian-owned Marrybrown, is its café operator for Expo 2020 Dubai. Marrybrown currently has more than 500 restaurants in Malaysia and across 16 countries, including in Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Myanmar, India, the Maldives, and the Middle East.

Marrybrown will feature signature Malaysian delicacies as well as fast food favourites that have proven to tantalise international taste buds. The offerings include Malaysian fried chicken, burgers, Arabian wraps and nasi lemak (fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaf). There will also be nasi kari ayam (curry chicken rice) and teh tarik (aerated milk tea).

"Malaysia Pavilion is incredibly happy to have Marrybrown as our café operator to represent our Malaysian identity. Marrybrown is a shining example of a Malaysian business which pioneered fast food chain franchising in Malaysia and went on to successfully spread its wings globally," said Shamsul Bahar Mohd Nor, CEO, Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Centre (MGTC).

"With its vision to bring Malaysian favourite dishes to the world, Marrybrown has flown the Malaysian flag high by going global as a brand. Marrybrown fittingly represent the Malaysian spirit and the best brands of Malaysia at Expo," added Shamsul Bahar.

Malaysia will be among 192 countries participating in Expo 2020 Dubai, scheduled for 1 October 2021 to 31 March 2022. Themed Connecting Minds, Creating the Future, the world expo is the first to be held in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia region.

Malaysia's overall participation at Expo 2020 is led by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation Malaysia while MGTC is the implementing agency. The Pavilion will house segments for permanent display and showcases, a business centre, an amphitheatre and retail and café areas. The net zero carbon site has the theme of Energising Sustainability and will be designed as a rainforest canopy. It is to be located between the Sustainability District and Mobility District at the 438-hectare expo site.

Malaysia's activities during the expo will include permanent displays, showcases, pocket talks, summits and forums, cultural performances, demonstrations and 26 weekly thematic trade and business programmes. The business weeks will be helmed and supported by 22 ministries, 44 agencies and five state governments.

Singapore will continue with a modified qurban ritual in 2021

The Singapore Mosque Korban Committee (JKMS) for 2021 has announced that a modified qurban ritual will be held this year, as the importation of livestock into Singapore would be challenging during the pandemic.

This year, mosques will again facilitate arrangements for Muslims who wish to perform Korban during Eid Al-Adha by having the ritual performed in Australia, after which the meat is chilled and shipped to Singapore. Mosques will distribute the meat to individuals who have purchased sheep for the qurban ritual, and share a portion of the meat with low-income families and to the community in the days after Eid. Safe management measures will be strictly observed during the entire exercise.

JKMS conducted an open request for proposal (RFP) exercise to recruit suitable approved vendors. The final list of qurban vendors are approved by the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis) and the Singapore Food Agency (SFA). These vendors have been assessed to have full compliance to all regulatory requirements for the import of meat products, Muis said.

The committee noted that modifications to the traditional ritual had been very well-received by the Muslim community in 2020. In 2020, 42 mosques offered the modified qurban ritual and services, offering up to 100 sheep each, with the sheep priced between S$300 and S$330. All participating mosques adopted standard operating procedures, observed high hygiene standards, staggered distribution and collection slots, and adhered to prevailing safety measures.

More details for qurban registration this year will be released in the first week of June 2021.

The Secret Garden by Zeekri introduces Cov-Eid Stay Home Takeaway Package

The Secret Garden (TSG) by Zeekri, the only halal French eatery in Singapore that marries food with flowers, is now offering the Cov-Eid Stay Home Takeaway Package. The takeaway menu, which includes free islandwide delivery, has sets for one at S$45, and sets for two at S$80. A Secret Platter goes from S$88 for the smaller portion. These prices are nett, with no extra charges.

The sets for one feature a soup, salad or starter; a main or pasta; a mocktail and a house dessert, while those for two allow diners to choose two of each category from the takeaway menu.

Source: TSG by Zeekri. Free islandwide delivery for TSG by Zeekri's Cov-Eid Stay Home Takeaway Package.

Source: TSG by Zeekri. TSG by Zeekri's Cov-Eid Stay Home Takeaway Package features both sets and platters.

 

Details:

Order through Instagram at @thesecretgardenbyzeekri or via WhatsApp at +65 9189 5663. Orders must be made by a day ahead for lunch, and by 12 pm for dinner on the same day.

Muis releases guidelines for Eid al-Fitr

The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis) has issued an advisory in the last week of Ramadhan amid tightened COVID-19 measures in Singapore.

Given that the Multi-Ministry Taskforce (MTF) in Singapore has announced that congregational and other worship services must implement pre-event testing for services involving more than 100 and up to 250 attendees at any one time, Muis will study the feasibility of implementing such pre-event testing procedures at mosques, given the cost and operational considerations involved. The organisation noted that pre-event testing would allow for larger congregational prayers (i.e. up to 250 spaces).

Muis further announced that booking for Eid prayers would open on 11 May 2021 at 10am. Bookings can be made via https://ourmosques.commonspaces.sg or via the Muslim.sg app. Congregants who are unwell or unable to attend the prayer session are advised to cancel their booking so that the space may be given to others.

On Eid eve, the Mufti of Singapore, Dr Nazirudin Mohd Nasir will lead a group of asatizah in the Takbir Raya. This will be broadcast live on SalamSG TV.

On Eid morning, mosques will conduct congregational prayers with full safe management measures in place. Each mosque will hold three prayer sessions. Each session will be limited to 100 congregants, in two zones of 50 persons each. SalamSG TV will broadcast the Mufti’s Eid sermon.

Muis' guidelines for visits during the Eid period include:

- Limiting social gatherings and home visitations to two per day

- Up to five unique visitors each day

- Greet using the 'salam mufti', where one places their hand close to their heart

- Keep masks on when visiting relatives and friends in their homes, when not consuming food and drink

- Avoid sharing of food with others, and consume individual portions

- Stay home if unwell, and see a doctor to get tested when sick; and

- Avoid going to crowded places, and stay home where possible. Muis suggests foregoing physical gatherings and instead connecting digitally.

"Our community has shown great resilience and responsibility throughout Ramadhan in fulfilling our religious obligations. Understandably, many are sad and disappointed, but the new and more contagious variant is a grim reminder that we are still in a pandemic situation. Let us make this Hari Raya season a very safe one where we are vigilant, resilient and united.

"When we follow the safety measures, we are keeping our society and our country safe. As we do so, others will recognise our religion as a religion that protects the well-being of others. This is our contribution that is in keeping with the spirit of ihsan (إحسان)* and kindness which we learn in the month of Ramadhan," said Dr Nazirudin.

*Ihsan is translated as excellence, perfection or beauty in relation to faith.

Mother's Day promotions at Samsung Singapore

Samsung Singapore is running Mother's Day (9 May) promotions for selected products.

Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G

Source: Samsung.
Samsung Galaxy
S21+ 5G.

With a 64 MP telephoto lens and the ability to shoot videos in 8K, the Galaxy S21+ 5G has up to 256 GB of built-in memory¹ and is available in Phantom Black, Phantom Silver and Phantom Violet.

Recommended retail price (RRP): S$1,428 (128 GB), S$1,498 (256 GB).

Mother’s Day promotion

Get free Buds Pro, Clear Cover, Wireless Charger Duo and 12-month VIU subscription with purchase of the Galaxy S21+ 5G.

Terms and conditions (T&Cs) apply. While stocks last.

 A Mother's Day promotion is also available for the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G (RRP: S$2,588): purchasers will get a free Galaxy Watch3 Bluetooth (45 mm) and a 12-month VIU subscription. 

Source: Samsung. The Galaxy Watch3 LTE (41 mm).

Galaxy Watch3 LTE (41 mm)

Available in Mystic Bronze and Mystic Silver, the Galaxy Watch3 LTE is billed as a fitness and wellness² companion. This watch (RRP: S$698) offers blood oxygen monitoring³, activity tracking and sleep tracking⁴.

Mother’s Day promotion

Receive a free gift box and enjoy S$70 off the Galaxy Watch3 with any Galaxy mobile or tablet purchase.

T&Cs apply.

Galaxy Tab S7+ Wi-Fi (256 GB)

Source: Samsung. The Galaxy Tab S7+ Wi-Fi.

This tablet (RRP: S$1,598) has a 12.4" Super AMOLED screen⁵ and Dolby Atmos surround sound speakers. An ultra-low latency S Pen is included. Available in Mystic Navy, Mystic Bronze and Mystic Black.

Mother’s Day promotion

Free Tab S7+ keyboard cover (Black), Microsoft 365 Personal and a 12-month VIU subscription with purchase.

T&Cs apply. While stocks last. 

Samsung also has ongoing promotions for purchases of selected smart monitors, smart TVs, phones, solid state (SSD) storage devices, and microwave ovens. 

1 Actual number of photos and videos that can be stored depends on your camera settings. Storage space simulation exclusive of pre-installed software and applications. Actual storage space may vary by country, model, file size and format.

2 Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis, treatment, monitoring or management of any medical condition or disease. Any health-related information accessed through the device and/or application should not be treated as medical advice. Users should seek any medical advice from a physician. The graphical user interface (GUI) of this feature is subject to change without prior notice. Fitness tracking on Galaxy Watch Active2 can be used without smartphone pairing, but data stored in the watch may only be partially displayed after a certain period of time. Use of Samsung Health app on your smartphone is required in order to keep all data stored, and this requires signup and pairing with your compatible smartphone.

3 SpO₂ is defined as saturation of percutaneous oxygen. Normal levels in humans are measured at approximately 95-100%. Factors like vigorous exercise, the amount of oxygen in the air, your elevation, and various health conditions can all result in lower readings.

4 Galaxy Watch3 records your rapid eye movement (REM) cycles, deep sleep, and total sleep time to score and review the quality of your rest. Samsung has partnered the National Sleep Foundation to include educational content and sleep tips on the device.

5 Measured diagonally as a full rectangle without accounting for the rounded corners. Actual viewable area is less due to the rounded corners and camera hole.

Sheraton Surabaya, Pakuwon Indah announces Ramadhan staycations, menus

Source: Four Points by Sheraton Surabaya, Pakuwon Indah. The Warisan Nusantara iftar buffet at the Djaman Doeloe Resto and Bar during Ramadhan.

Four Points by Sheraton Surabaya, Pakuwon Indah presents a Warisan Nusantara iftar feast at Djaman Doeloe Resto and Bar in addition to promotions and seasonal decor.

Four Points by Sheraton Surabaya, Pakuwon Indah has a Ramadhan staycation programme, #DiSurabayaAja, starting from Rp850,000++/room/night. The package includes suhoor and iftar for two persons at Djaman Doeloe Resto and Bar. A separate staycation programme for business travellers, Work in Comfort, includes breakfast, free laundry facilities, late checkout, and 20% off for ordering food and drinks at Djaman Doeloe Resto and Bar, as well as high-speed Internet connections.

For Rp198,000 nett per person, people can enjoy a variety of Indonesian dishes through the Warisan Nusantara iftar buffet at the Djaman Doeloe Resto and Bar. Highlights include nasi hijau Jepara, which is served with sauteed corn, mushrooms, pentul (pin) satay, kecombrang (broken) chicken, and empal beef (fried beef); kambing guling (bolster) with ketupat (rice stuffed into woven palm leaves), and nasi kebuli kambing (Indonesian qabooli with mutton), among other dishes from all over Nusantara. Diners further enjoy a Buy 1 Get 1 discount by using a credit card.

"Chef Lukman Santoso and a team from Djaman Doeloe Resto and Bar invite you to travel around Indonesia through various typical Indonesian dishes to complete your breaking your fast with your family, partner, and other loved ones by continuing to apply health protocols in this new normal era," said Alamsyah Jo, Complex GM of Four Points by Sheraton Surabaya, Pakuwon Indah, and The Westin Surabaya.

Four Points by Sheraton Surabaya, Pakuwon Indah implements strict health protocols for the iftar buffet. Seating capacity and the number of guests have been reduced by up to 50%, and buffet dishes are served directly by the hotel's chefs. Sanitiser equipment is available in every corner of Djaman Doeloe Resto and Bar.

For those who want to enjoy a traditional iftar, Djaman Doeloe Resto and Bar also offers the Ramadhan #DiRumahAja and Hantaran Nusantara packages. These start from Rp88,000++ per item.

While waiting for sunset, there is the Ngabuburit* Ngeteh Doeloe menu at Djaman Doeloe Restaurant and Bar. This package includes various street snacks and a selection of Indonesian teas.

"We want guests to feel safe and comfortable in celebrating iftar in the holy month of Ramadhan at Four Points by Sheraton Surabaya, Pakuwon Indah, even though it is still in a pandemic condition," said Jo.

*According to Transparent Language, ngabuburit refers to distractions in the period shortly before sunset, when the fast can be broken.

Global Islamic banking software market to grow 12.6% through to 2021

The Global Islamic Banking Software Market 2017-2021 report from Technavio, issued in September 2017, has been added to Research and Markets' portfolio. The report includes software sales for retail banking, corporate banking, capital markets, dealing, brokerage, and investment banking.

The global Islamic banking software market is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 12.6% from 2017-2021.

One trend in the market is Blockchain with digital transformation of industry verticals such as BFSI and manufacturing driving the Blockchain technology market.

Technavio has also observed growth in the number of sukuk issues and commented that banks and financial organisations are finding it increasingly difficult to monitor and manage them. As opposed to conventional bonds, which merely confer ownership of the debt, sukuk grants the investor a share of an asset along with the commensurate cash flows and risks. Sukuk securities do not charge or pay interest. The sukuk growth rate is currently 10%-15% globally. Another challenge is around system integration and interoperability.

Key vendors mentioned in this report include ITS, Oracle, Path Solutions and Temenos. Other prominent vendors listed in the report include:
AutoSoft Dynamics
BML Istisharat
EdgeVerve (an Infosys company)
ICS Financial Systems
INFOPRO
Infrasoft Technologies
Intertech
Millennium Information Solution
Misys
Nucleus Software Exports
SAB
Silverlake Axis
Sopra Banking Software
Tata Consultancy Services and
VIRMATI SOFTWARE & TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Interested?

Buy the Global Islamic Banking Software Market 2017-2021 report

Global halal cosmetics market to have a CAGR of nearly 15% by 2021

Amara Cosmetics, Inika, Martha Tilaar Group, MMA Bio Lab, and the Halal Cosmetics Company, are the key vendors in the global halal cosmetics market, says market analyst firm Technavio.The company predicts that the global halal cosmetics market will grow steadily during the next four years and post a CAGR of almost 15% by 2021.

Rising consumer awareness toward halal cosmetic products is one of the primary growth factors for this market. Due to the need to follow Islamic standards for halal certification of cosmetics, halal beauty products do not contain animal-derived ingredients or alcohol, Technavio said. They are considered to be more pure and hygienic compared to regular cosmetics, which increases their adoption rate among the non-Muslim population as well*, Technavio said. Furthermore, the growing awareness among the younger Muslim population across the globe about their religious obligations will also drive the growth of the halal cosmetics market.

This market research and analysis estimates that in terms of geographical regions, Asia Pacific (APAC) will be the major revenue contributor to the market throughout the predicted period. The presence of a large Muslim population in countries such as Indonesia, India, Pakistan, Malaysia, and Bangladesh, the economic development of various countries in the region, and the increase in disposable income of consumers in China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Pakistan, and India, will be major factors fuelling the growth of the halal skincare market in APAC during the next four years.
Competitive landscape and key vendors

The global halal cosmetics market is characterised by the presence of a number of well-established international and regional players and appears to be highly fragmented. The coming years will witness an increase in the adoption of halal makeup products by a wider audience, besides the Muslim community. This will induce halal cosmetics manufacturers to focus on introducing new products and enhance their customer base in various geographical regions. Vendors in the market mainly compete on various factors such as product pricing, quality, brand, and variety of product and deduce different strategies to increase their market shares. Additionally, to maintain their market dominance and improve their market positions, the leading halal cosmetics companies will also concentrate on acquiring new brands.

The report segments the halal cosmetics market into personal care and colour cosmetics. During 2016, the personal care segment dominated this market. Analysts predict that though the rise in availability of counterfeit products will affect the growth of this market segment, the increasing demand for high-quality cosmetics and the benefits of halal personal care products that are attracting the non-Muslim population will also fuel the growth in this market segment in the coming years.

Retail outlets such as department stores, hypermarkets, and supermarkets offer various halal cosmetic brands. Additionally, they also carry out various activities to promote the products to consumers. According to this market research study, this segment accounted for the major revenue shares and dominated the market during 2016.

Besides the leading vendors in the market, other prominent vendors in the market are Malaysia's Clara International, INGLOT Cosmetics, Ivy Beauty, Liasari, Muslimah Manufacturing, OnePure, Paragon Cosmetics, Pure Halal Beauty (PHB) Ethical Beauty, Saaf Skincare, Samina Pure Makeup (Sampure Minerals) and SirehEmas.

Interested?

Buy the Technavio Global Halal Cosmetics report (January 2017)

Read the Suroor Asia blog post about Allied Market Research's global halal cosmetics report 

*Interest in beauty products which are all-natural and which do not contain animal by-products is indeed growing but they are sought out by non-Muslims for these characteristics and not because they are halal. Some halal cosmetics may contain animal by-products, while some vegan products may not be halal.

Iranians prefer traditional sugar confections

The modern sugar confectionery market is immature in Iran. Traditional products were popular in 2016, consultancy Euromonitor said, with geo-specific confectionery in different cities that are often sold as souvenirs. Gaz (گز) from Isfahan, a type of nougat; sohan (سوهان) from Qom, a saffron-laced toffee; and baklava (باقلوا) from Yazd, a layered pastry with nuts soaked in sugar syrup, are all popular traditional sugar confectionery in Iran. 

Sugar is popularly consumed with tea as sugar 'cubes' which are cut into irregular shapes by hand. Sugar-free products are also increasingly popular among Iranian consumers, as they are increasingly concerned with their appearance and health.

The Iranian sugar confectionery market is dominated by Shiva Manufacturing Company, the key leading player in pastilles with a wide range of products in different shapes and flavours accounts for a 22% retail value share in 2016. Next in line is Dadash Baradar Company (Aidin) which accounts for 15% market share by retail value in 2016. It is known for boiled sweets, toffees and mints. Draje Food Industries is in third place, accounting for 8% of retail value sales of sugar confectionery, mainly in pastilles.

Sugar confectionery is expected to grow steadily with a CAGR of 1% in constant 2016 terms from 2016 to 2021, and will be higher than that seen in the review period (2011 to 2016). Domestic suppliers will expand their activities while multinational brands are expected to enter the market. The consumption of new premium brands is expected to grow over the forecast period due to increased consumer curiosity and the willingness of the younger generation to spend more on these products. 

Interested?

Buy the Euromonitor Confectionery in Iran report (December 2016)

Sugar confectionery market to grow at 4% CAGR through to 2021 in Indonesia

Perfetti Van Melle Indonesia PT is known for the Mentos brand in Indonesia.

A large variety of affordable sugar confectionery, coupled with marketing efforts from leading manufacturers in Indonesia has been driving sales in this product category in Indonesia, says research consultancy Euromonitor in its Confectionery in Indonesia report.

Perfetti Van Melle Indonesia PT continues to lead sugar confectionery with a value share of 23% in 2016. The company is known for the Mentos, Alpenliebe, Fruit-tella, Marbels, Golia, Chox and Chupa Chups brands. Over the review period of 2011 to 2016 the company invested heavily in new product development as well as marketing in order to maintain its leadership of the category, Euromonitor said.

Sugar confectionery is expected to increase at a value CAGR of 4% at constant 2016 prices over the forecast period from 2016 to 2021, driven by the Indonesian consumer characteristics such as the willingness  to try new products. Euromonitor believes that manufacturers are likely to work on brand differentiation in the face of tough competition. They are also expected to launch new products regularly, while at the same time maintaining stable prices.

Interested?

Buy the Euromonitor Confectionery in Indonesia report

Sugar confectionery market to grow 4% in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan’s strong preference for unpackaged versions of sugar confections since Soviet times has continued in 2016. These include sold-by-weight caramels, boiled sweets, chews and jellies from both local and multinational manufacturers, and specific traditional sugar confectionery products, says Euromonitor. 

Domestic production mainly came from Bolluq and Bismak Senayi Kompleksi. More than a 50% share of sugar confectionery sold in the country is imported from Ukraine (10,304 tonnes in 2014). The leading brands from Ukraine include Konti and Roshen. Key Russian brands in Azerbaijan are Udarnitsa, Sharmel and Krasny Oktyabr, Rot Front, Nestlé Azerbaijan, Mars and Ferrero Russia (brand Raffaello). 

Some 100 tonnes of lollipops, mints and pastilles are imported annually from Ukraine, Russia, Turkey and Germany. Seventy percent of boiled sweets are imported from Ukraine; however, starting in April 2016, Russia has been taking action against exports of Ukrainian sweets to Georgia and Azerbaijan (through Georgia). Also, the brands Haribo, Tic Tac (Ferrero) and Hazerbaba from Turkey are increasingly accounting for a larger share of sales.

United Brands Distribution led sugar confectionery in 2016 with a 20% value share. The company officially distributes the top sugar confectionery brands from GBO Perfetti Van Melle Group, such as Chupa Chups. Fruit-tella and Mentos, and also the brands of GBO Mendelez International. In addition, for the last few years of the review period, the brand Sulá from GBO Perfetti Van Melle Group, imported by NBO United Brands Distribution, has increased in popularity. 

Sales are expected to grow at a CAGR of 4% at constant 2016 prices over the forecast period (2016 to 2021). Other sugar confectionery is set to record a strong performance over the forecast period, which will be due to an expected increase in the number of brands with health and wellness positioning. Boiled sweets is set to continue to be the largest category in both value and volume terms over the forecast period.

Interested?

Buy the Euromonitor Confectionery in Azerbaijan report

Doogh market contracts in 2016

Yoghurt is set to remain an essential part of Iranian cuisine and be consumed by people of all ages and all socioeconomic levels. The product will likely continue to be popular for breakfast and as a complement to Iranian dishes, says Euromonitor in a report on the dairy market in the country. In addition, growth will be driven by the use of sour milk drinks in place of carbonated drinks by Iranian adults, as well as an overall consumption of doogh*, a drink often served with an Iranian meal. 

In 2016 retail volume sales of sour milk products such as doogh declined by 1%, continuing the downward trend of the last three years of the review period (2011 to 2016) and demonstrating that the category has reached its maximum potential, says Euromonitor. 

Plain yoghurt, on the other hand, grew by 1% in retail volume terms, an improvement over the negative retail volume CAGR of 3% recorded over the review period. This is due to the introduction of more sophisticated products with health and wellness adding value, Euromonitor said. The consumer tendency to switch from unpackaged to packaged yoghurt was another important reason for volume growth in 2016, the research firm added.

Kalleh Dairy maintained its leadership in yoghurt and sour milk drinks in Iran in 2016 with a 21% retail value share in last year. The company boasts a wide product portfolio of yoghurt, including spoonable and fruited yoghurt, flavoured, full fat and low fat products. Its probiotic yoghurt has attracted consumers with health concerns. Kalleh Dairy products are widely available throughout the country and enjoy loyalty from Iranians. Attractive packaging and a reputation as a manufacturer of quality products have also added to its popularity.

Overall, yoghurt and sour milk drinks is expected to record a 2% value CAGR at constant 2016 prices over the forecast period (2016 to 2021), compared to the negative constant value CAGR of 5% witnessed over the review period.

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*A beverage made with yoghurt and salted water.

Chocolate is the top indulgence product in Indonesia

Indonesians are now more aware of the benefits of chocolate if it is consumed in moderation, and continue to buy it as a snack or to gift on special occasions, boosting volume sales of chocolate confectionery in 2016, says research consultancy Euromonitor. In fact, chocolate confectionery is expected to continue as the most favoured indulgence product* for consumers of all ages in Indonesia, the company said.

Ceres PT has retained its clear leadership in chocolate confectionery with a value share of 52% in 2016, thanks to the company’s brand reputation, broad product offering and competitive pricing, Euromonitor said. Ceres markets several chocolate confectionery brands, including Silver Queen, Silver Queen Chunky and Delfi (tablets); Top (second leading countlines** brand); Delfi and Van Houten (boxed assortments); as well as Cha Cha and Chic Choc (chocolate pouches and bags). The company’s aggressive marketing campaigns have also contributed to its performance.

Euromonitor forecasts that chocolate confectionery is likely to post a healthy value CAGR of 6% in constant 2016 terms over the forecast period of 2016 to 2021.

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*An indulgence product is a luxury item which the buyer does not need and may feel guilty about purchasing. 

**Confectionery term for bars of candy or chocolate, often shipped to retailers in cartons. The contents are then sold individually.

Cheese options grew for Iran in 2016

More sophisticated products were offered to Irani consumers in 2016, contributing significantly to growth in the cheese category, says Euromonitor in its Dairy in Iran report. One type of cheese had previously been available, a soft cheese called Iranian UF cheese; key manufacturers diversified and offered cream cheese, processed cheese and other options, which helped the whole category to grow at a healthy rate.

Pegah Dairy was the lead manufacturer in cheese in 2016 with a 29% share of retail value sales, Euromonitor said. The state-owned company has several factories across the country, including in Pegah Khorasan, Pegah Gilan and other areas, which supply their territories with fresh dairy products. Pegah Dairy maintains the popular Pegah Shabnam brand of cheese, a simple soft cheese packaged in saltwater. The company has a very strong distribution network which guarantees its presence even in remote areas and was able to strengthen its position in 2016 with strong marketing campaigns in 2015 and 2016.

According to Euromonitor, strong demand from Iranians for packaged cheese will likely continue to boost retail sales of cheese over the forecast period. As in the review period, sales are set to be driven by the fact that cheese is widely consumed in Iran and general demand for sophisticated processed cheese is still growing. Overall, sales are expected to record steady annual rises with CAGRs of 1% in retail volume and 2% in value terms at constant 2016 prices over the forecast period (2016 to 2021), both of which are improvements over the equivalent performances of the review period (2011 to 2016).

In contrast, drinking milk product players have been consolidating. Demand has continued to decline, especially in shelf-stable category, as many young shoppers consider this type of milk unhealthy option and believe that it contains preservatives.

Pegah Dairy is also the leader in drinking milk products, with a retail value share of 21% in 2016, slightly lower than in 2015. Pegah Dairy has the most productive production line amongst manufacturers in the popular fresh milk category. Its distribution network has also helped its lead position. It also has one of the most visible advertising campaigns in stores.

PROSPECTS

Sales of drinking milk products as a whole are expected to grow due to increased awareness and improvements in the Iranian economy. Overall, drinking milk products is expected to register a value CAGR of 9% at constant 2016 prices over the forecast period (2016 to 2021), some five percentage points higher than the equivalent figure from the review period (2011 to 2016).

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