May/ June Edition: In this edition we present an update of the 2005 Research Brief titled "Is Intra-OIC Trade on the Rise?" (OIC = Organization of Islamic Conference.) With many of the Muslim world economies growing in global prominence, one question often asked is how much of the trade is being done between these economies.
Our latest research brief looks at the current Intra-OIC trade trends by evaluating the four leading Muslim majority country economies of Malaysia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Indonesia and their trade with the rest of the 57 OIC member countries compared to the rest of the world. Even as the Islamic Development Bank Annual Report (2006-07) revealed that OIC member countries’ overall share of trade with other OIC member countries was a mere 14%, our Brief certainly shows a strong rise in Intra-OIC trade between the years 2003-07.
One story we are proud to have finally covered is the exemplary corporate social services program of the Saudi Arabia based conglomerate Abdul Latif Jameel Group. We have also included a photo journal showcasing ALJ's impressive array of community programs.
For our Muslim Lifestyle Market section we have an inspiring entrepreneurship story of Kuwait based Dr. Naif Al-Mutawa's The 99 comic series gaining regional prominence including licensing deals such as a newly announced 99 Village theme park being initiated in the GCC.
Finally, guest contributor Dr Athar Osama provides an outsiders perspective on the recent Harvard Islamic Finance Forum while Ms. Nawal Ouzren, herself a former six-sigma black belt for General Electric (GE), looks at a large successful six-sigma implementation in Turkey (at a major conglomerate Borusan Holding.)
I look forward to your comments on this update. Also, we would like your recommendations on innovative and inspiring products, companies and business leaders from the Muslim world for us to consider profiling.
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