Kazan: KazanForum 2026 is expected to generate new trade, investment and Islamic finance opportunities between Russia and Islamic economies, with organisers aiming to strengthen cross-border business cooperation through industry-focused engagements and targeted investment initiatives.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the 17th International Economic Forum 'Russia-Islamic World: KazanForum' is being held in Kazan, Russia from May 12 to 17, bringing together participants from Russia, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member countries, ASEAN, and other international markets. Head of the Investment Development Agency of the Republic of Tatarstan, Taliya Minullina, emphasized that the forum serves as Russia's main economic platform connecting the country with Islamic markets. She highlighted the opportunity for Tatarstan to showcase its investment potential and engage with Islamic countries.
The briefing session ahead of the forum was attended by Tatarstan Culture Minister Irada Ayupova, deputy chairman of the Strategic Vision Group 'Russia-Islamic World' and aide to the Rais (Head) of Tatarstan Marat Gatin, and general director of the Directorate for Sports and Social Projects Maksim Denisov. Kazan, more than 830 kilometres from Moscow, is the largest city and capital of the Republic of Tatarstan, known for its industrial, commercial, and cultural significance for the Tatar people. As of 2022, Tatarstan had a population of 3.9 million people, with Muslims making up over 50 percent. The republic hosts more than 150 halal product manufacturers, including around 20 companies focused on exports.
Minullina noted Tatarstan's efforts to promote investment across sectors such as machinery manufacturing, agriculture, tourism, culture, production, and halal-certified industries. She mentioned initiatives involving machinery manufacturing, including helicopters, trucks, ships, and aircraft, intended for export to Islamic countries. The forum will feature 159 business matching sessions covering various sectors, alongside discussions on Islamic finance, food security, tourism, and regional investment cooperation. The momentum in Islamic finance initiatives is growing, with Shariah-compliant financing instruments and Islamic bond structures under development in Russia.
Participation in the forum has reached nearly 25,000 registered delegates, indicating rising international interest in economic cooperation with Russia and Islamic economies, including Malaysia and the ASEAN region. The 2026 business programme spans international cooperation, Islamic finance and investment, halal production, industry, transport, tourism, medicine, education, culture, sports, youth entrepreneurship, women's agenda, and media. Participants will also attend thematic sessions featuring experts from Russian regions, OIC member countries, and other international markets.