In 2020, Indonesia recorded the largest population of Muslims worldwide, with around 239 million. This was followed with around 226.88 million Muslims in Pakistan and 213 million Muslims in India.

Associated with manuscript titled: Fifty Muslim-majority countries have fewer COVID-19 cases and deaths than the 50 richest non-Muslim countriesThe objective of this research was to determine the difference in the total number of COVID-19 cases and deaths between Muslim-majority and non-Muslim countries, and investigate reasons for the disparities. Methods: The 50 Muslim-majority countries had more than 50.0% Muslims with an average of 87.5%. The non-Muslim country sample consisted of 50 countries with the highest GDP while omitting any Muslim-majority countries listed. The non-Muslim countries’ average percentage of Muslims was 4.7%. Data pulled on September 18, 2020 included the percentage of Muslim population per country by World Population Review15 and GDP per country, population count, and total number of COVID-19 cases and deaths by Worldometers.16 The data set was transferred via an Excel spreadsheet on September 23, 2020 and analyzed. To measure COVID-19’s incidence in the countries, three different Average Treatment Methods (ATE) were used to validate the results. Results published as a preprint at https://doi.org/10.31235/osf.io/84zq5(15) Muslim Majority Countries 2020 [Internet]. Walnut (CA): World Population Review. 2020- [Cited 2020 Sept 28]. Available from: http://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/muslim-majority-countries (16) Worldometers.info. Worldometer. Dover (DE): Worldometer; 2020 [cited 2020 Sept 28]. Available from: http://worldometers.info

Islam is the major religion in many African countries, especially in the north of the continent. In Comoros, Libya, Western Sahara, at least 99 percent of the population was Muslim as of 202. These were the highest percentages on the continent. However, also in many other African nations, the majority of the population was Muslim. In Egypt, for instance, Islam was the religion of 79 percent of the people. Islam and other religions in Africa Africa accounts for an important share of the world’s Muslim population. As of 2019, 16 percent of the Muslims worldwide lived in Sub-Saharan Africa, while 20 percent of them lived in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Together with Christianity, Islam is the most common religious affiliation in Africa, followed by several traditional African religions. Although to a smaller extent, numerous other religions are practiced on the continent: these include Judaism, the Baha’i Faith, Hinduism, and Buddhism. Number of Muslims worldwide Islam is one of the most widespread religions in the world. There are approximately 1.9 billion Muslims globally, with the largest Muslim communities living in the Asia-Pacific region. Specifically, Indonesia hosts the highest number of Muslims worldwide, amounting to over 200 million, followed by India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Islam is also present in Europe and America. The largest Islamic communities in Europe are in France (5.72 million), Germany (4.95 million), and the United Kingdom (4.13 million). In the United States, there is an estimated number of around 3.45 million Muslims.

In 2023, it was estimated that approximately ** percent of the Indonesian population were Muslim, accounting for the highest share of Muslims in any Southeast Asian country. Indonesia also has the world's largest Muslim population, with an estimated *** million Muslims. Demographics of Indonesia The total population of Indonesia was estimated to reach around *** million in 2028. The median age of the population in the country was at an all-time high in 2020 and was projected to increase continuously until the end of the century. In 2020, the population density in Indonesia reached its highest value recorded at about ***** people per square kilometer. Shopping behavior during Ramadan in Indonesia Nearly all Muslims in Indonesia celebrated Ramadan in 2022. During the month of Ramadan, ** percent of Indonesian users utilized online applications to order food. Many Indonesians planned to shop online or offline during Ramadan, with around ** percent of online users planning to purchase fashion wear and accessories. Shopee was the most used app for shopping purposes during that period.

The average for 2013 based on 46 countries was 43.9 percent. The highest value was in Algeria: 100 percent and the lowest value was in Angola: 0 percent. The indicator is available from 1960 to 2013. Below is a chart for all countries where data are available.

Muslim Ingredients Market Outlook

The global Muslim ingredients market size is projected to grow from USD 1.9 billion in 2023 to USD 3.5 billion by 2032, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.2%. The burgeoning Muslim population, coupled with increasing awareness and demand for halal-certified products, is a key growth factor driving this market.

The rising Muslim population globally is one of the primary drivers of the Muslim ingredients market. As of 2023, Muslims constitute about 24% of the worldÂ’s population, and this demographic is expected to grow significantly over the next decade. This growth is predominantly seen in regions such as the Asia-Pacific, Middle East, and Africa. The increasing Muslim population naturally leads to a higher demand for halal products, including food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. A deeper understanding and adherence to religious dietary laws have further solidified the importance of incorporating halal ingredients in daily consumption.

The surge in disposable income among Muslim consumers has also played a pivotal role in the market's expansion. Improved economic conditions in countries with significant Muslim populations, such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and UAE, have led to increased spending on premium halal-certified products. This trend is particularly evident in the food and beverage sector, where consumers are willing to pay a premium for assurance of quality and compliance with Islamic dietary laws. Consequently, manufacturers are increasingly investing in halal certification and aligning their products with Islamic principles to tap into this lucrative market.

Technological advancements and innovation in the processing and certification of halal products have further bolstered market growth. The introduction of blockchain technology for halal certification ensures transparency, traceability, and authenticity, thus gaining consumer trust. Additionally, advancements in food science have enabled the development of new halal-friendly ingredients, expanding the range of available products. Companies investing in research and development are better positioned to cater to the evolving preferences of Muslim consumers and gain a competitive edge in the market.

Halal Food plays a pivotal role in the Muslim ingredients market, as it aligns with the religious and cultural practices of Muslim consumers. The demand for halal food is not only limited to Muslim-majority countries but is also gaining traction in regions with growing Muslim populations, such as Europe and North America. This trend is driven by the increasing awareness of halal food as a symbol of quality and ethical production, appealing to both Muslim and non-Muslim consumers. The assurance of halal certification provides consumers with confidence that the food products adhere to strict Islamic dietary laws, which is crucial for maintaining religious observance. As a result, food manufacturers are increasingly investing in halal certification to cater to this expanding market segment and capitalize on the growing demand for halal food products globally.

Regionally, the Asia-Pacific holds the largest market share, driven by countries like Indonesia and Malaysia, where the majority of the population adheres to Islamic dietary laws. North America and Europe are also witnessing increased demand for halal products, fueled by the growing Muslim immigrant population and rising awareness among non-Muslim consumers about the benefits of halal-certified products. The Middle East and Africa region, with its predominantly Muslim population, remains a critical market, contributing significantly to the global revenue.

Product Type Analysis

The product type segment of the Muslim ingredients market comprises halal meat, halal dairy products, halal beverages, halal confectionery, halal nutraceuticals, and others. Halal meat holds a significant share in this segment due to the stringent religious guidelines governing meat consumption in Islam. The demand for halal meat is particularly high in regions with large Muslim populations, such as the Middle East, North Africa, and Southeast Asia. Companies are increasingly focusing on ensuring that their meat products are certified halal to cater to this growing demand. The advent of online meat delivery services has further propelled the growth of this segment.

Halal dairy products, including milk, cheese, and yogurt, are another crucial segment that has see

In 2024, Nigeria had the largest Muslim population in Africa, with around 105 million people who belonged to an Islamic denomination. Egypt and Algeria followed with 90.4 million and 39.4 million Muslims, respectively. Muslims have a significant presence in Africa, with an estimated 50 percent of the continent's population identifying as Muslim. The spread of Islam in Africa began in the 7th century with the arrival of Arab traders, and it continued through Islamic scholars and missionaries.

This statistic shows the estimated number of Muslims living in different European countries as of 2016. Approximately **** million Muslims were estimated to live in France, the most of any country listed. Germany and the United Kingdom also have large muslim populations with **** million and **** million respectively.

The average for 2013 based on 27 countries was 12.7 percent. The highest value was in Turkey: 99 percent and the lowest value was in Belarus: 0 percent. The indicator is available from 1960 to 2013. Below is a chart for all countries where data are available.

The Islamic necropolis discovered in Tauste (Zaragoza, Spain) is the only evidence that a large Muslim community lived in the area between the 8th and 10th centuries. A multi-isotope approach has been used to investigate the mobility and diet of this medieval Muslim population living in a shifting frontier region. Thirty-one individuals were analyzed to determine δ15N, δ13C, δ18O and 87Sr/86Sr composition. A combination of strontium and oxygen isotope analysis indicated that most individuals were of local origin although three females and two males were non-local. The non-local males would be from a warmer zone whereas two of the females would be from a more mountainous geographical region and the third from a geologically-different area. The extremely high δ15N baseline at Tauste was due to bedrock composition (gypsum and salt). High individual δ15N values were related to the manuring effect and consumption of fish. Adult males were the most privileged members of society in the medieval Muslim world and, as isotope data reflected, consumed more animal proteins than females and young males.

In 2024, Nigeria accounted for 7.08 percent of the global Muslim population, the highest share among African countries. Egypt and Algeria followed, with shares of 6.12 percent and 2.67 percent, respectively. Islam has a significant presence in Africa, with an estimated 50 percent of the continent's population identifying as Muslim. The spread of Islam in Africa began in the 7th century with the arrival of Arab traders, and later continued through Islamic scholars and missionaries.

The average for 2013 based on 11 countries was 0 percent. The highest value was in Argentina: 0 percent and the lowest value was in Argentina: 0 percent. The indicator is available from 1960 to 2013. Below is a chart for all countries where data are available.

Religion and Bangladesh

Religion in Bangladesh is a sensitive issue, mostly because Bangladesh is officially a secular state but recognizes Islam as an official, state religion. Historically and doctrinally, Islamic scholars don’t accept nations that are secular because they think that religion, society and private life are all part of the great community they like to call ‘umma’.

The main religion in Bangladesh is Islam because it is practiced by almost 90 percent of the country’s population. The rest of 10 percent adhere to Hinduism. The type of Islam that is practiced in Bangladesh is Sunni Islam with a lot of Sufi influences. Sunni is the most numerous branch of Islam in the world. Countries like Egypt and Saudi Arabia have Sunni majority populations. The Sufi practices that influence the Islamic religion in Bangladesh are commonly known as mysticism. Sufi followers are poor men that don’t eat, don’t drink and spend their days in deep prayer in order to achieve spiritual connection with God.

Bangladesh has the fourth largest Muslim population in the world, with over 130 million followers, right after Indonesia, Pakistan and India. In its constitution, Bangladesh is recognized as a secular state. For a short period of time, when Bangladesh was under Pakistani rule, Islam was made the state’s official religion. But the Supreme Court or High Court of Bangladesh ruled that Bangladesh must return to the principles of the 1972 constitution, meaning that it mustn’t have an official religion.

The problem with Islam gaining too much power in Bangladesh is that it unbalances the genders issues. Islamic edicts or fatwas have been issued mostly against women by religious courts as punishments for their nonreligious behavior. Global NGO’s are fighting such edicts in order to maintain a fair judgment when it comes to men and women. Bangladesh is a country where gender issues, as well as religious issues are very sensitive subjects.

As of 2010, Christianity was the religion with the most followers worldwide, followed by Islam (Muslims) and Hinduism. In the forty years between 2010 and 2050, it is projected that the landscape of world religions will undergo some noticeable changes, with the number of Muslims almost catching up to Christians. The changes in population sizes of each religious group is largely dependent on demographic development, for example, the rise in the world's Christian population will largely be driven by population growth in Sub-Saharan Africa, while Muslim populations will rise across various regions of Africa and South Asia. As India's population is set to grow while China's goes into decline, this will be reflected in the fact that Hindus will outnumber the unaffiliated by 2050. In fact, India may be home to both the largest Hindu and Muslim populations in the world by the middle of this century.

In 2023, over ** percent of Indonesians declared themselves to be Muslim, followed by *** percent who were Christians. Indonesia has the largest Islamic population in the world and for this reason is often recognized as a Muslim nation. However, Indonesia is not a Muslim nation according to its constitution. The archipelago is a multifaith country and officially recognizes six religions – Islam, Protestantism, Catholicism, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Confucianism. Not all provinces in Indonesia are Muslim majority The spread of Islam in Indonesia began on the west side of the archipelago, where the main maritime trade routes were located. Until today, most of the Indonesian Muslim population are residing in Western and Central Indonesia, while the majority religion of several provinces in Eastern Indonesia, such as East Nusa Tenggara and Bali, is Christian and Hindu, respectively. Discrimination towards other beliefs in Indonesia The Indonesian constitution provides for freedom of religion. However, the Government Restrictions Index Score on religion in Indonesia is relatively high. Indonesians who practice unrecognized religions, including Indonesia’s indigenous or traditional belief systems, such as animism, dynamism, and totemism, face legal restrictions and discrimination. Indonesian law requires its citizens to put one of the recognized religions on their national identity cards, with some exceptions for indigenous religions. Although legally citizens may leave the section blank, atheism or agnosticism is considered uncommon in Indonesia.

India Census: Population: by Religion: Muslim: Urban data was reported at 68,740,419.000 Person in 2011. This records an increase from the previous number of 49,393,496.000 Person for 2001. India Census: Population: by Religion: Muslim: Urban data is updated yearly, averaging 59,066,957.500 Person from Mar 2001 (Median) to 2011, with 2 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 68,740,419.000 Person in 2011 and a record low of 49,393,496.000 Person in 2001. India Census: Population: by Religion: Muslim: Urban data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Census of India. The data is categorized under India Premium Database’s Demographic – Table IN.GAE001: Census: Population: by Religion.

In 2016, it was estimated that Birmingham had the largest Muslim population of any local authority in England and Wales at approximately 280 thousand people. Newham and Tower Hamlets, both boroughs of London, had the second and third-largest Muslim populations at 135 and 128 thousand respectively.

Census: Population: by Religion: Muslim: Uttarakhand data was reported at 1,406,825.000 Person in 03-01-2011. This records an increase from the previous number of 1,012,141.000 Person for 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Muslim: Uttarakhand data is updated decadal, averaging 1,209,483.000 Person from Mar 2001 (Median) to 03-01-2011, with 2 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,406,825.000 Person in 03-01-2011 and a record low of 1,012,141.000 Person in 03-01-2001. Census: Population: by Religion: Muslim: Uttarakhand data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India. The data is categorized under India Premium Database’s Demographic – Table IN.GAE003: Census: Population: by Religion: Muslim.

Islamic Financing Market Outlook

In 2023, the global Islamic financing market size was estimated to be approximately USD 2 trillion, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10% between 2024 and 2032. The market is expected to reach around USD 4.7 trillion by 2032, driven by robust growth factors including rising interest in ethical financing, increasing Muslim population, and supportive government regulations.

The growth of the Islamic financing market can largely be attributed to the increasing demand for Sharia-compliant financial instruments. As awareness about the principles and benefits of Islamic finance grows, both among Muslims and non-Muslims, the demand for ethical and interest-free financial products continues to rise. Additionally, governments in Muslim-majority countries are implementing supportive regulations and policies to promote Islamic finance, further fueling its growth. This regulatory support creates a conducive environment for the development and expansion of Islamic financial institutions and products, attracting more investors and customers.

Another significant growth factor is the increasing Muslim population worldwide. As the number of Muslims continues to rise, so does the demand for financial services that comply with Islamic law. This demographic trend is particularly noticeable in regions such as Asia Pacific and the Middle East, where a significant portion of the population adheres to Islamic principles. Financial institutions in these regions are increasingly tailoring their products and services to meet the specific needs and preferences of Muslim consumers, thereby driving market growth.

Technological advancements are also playing a crucial role in the growth of the Islamic financing market. The integration of technology in financial services, known as fintech, is transforming the way Islamic financial products are delivered and consumed. Fintech solutions are making it easier for consumers to access Islamic financial services, reducing the cost of transactions, and increasing efficiency. This technological revolution is enabling Islamic financial institutions to reach a broader audience and provide more innovative and competitive products.

As the Islamic financing market continues to grow, there is an increasing focus on the use of Muslim Ingredients in various financial products and services. These ingredients, which adhere to Islamic principles, ensure that all financial transactions are conducted in a manner that is compliant with Sharia law. This includes the prohibition of interest (riba) and the requirement for risk-sharing and ethical investment practices. By incorporating Muslim Ingredients into their offerings, financial institutions can appeal to a broader audience seeking ethical and Sharia-compliant solutions. This approach not only aligns with the values of Muslim consumers but also attracts non-Muslims interested in ethical finance, thereby expanding the market reach and potential for growth.

Regionally, the Middle East & Africa is the largest market for Islamic financing, accounting for a significant share of the global market. The region is home to several Muslim-majority countries where Islamic finance is deeply rooted in the culture and financial system. Asia Pacific is another major market, driven by large Muslim populations in countries such as Indonesia and Malaysia. North America and Europe are also witnessing growth in Islamic financing, albeit at a slower pace, as financial institutions in these regions recognize the potential of this market and begin to offer Sharia-compliant products.

Financial Instrument Analysis

The Islamic financing market is segmented by financial instruments, including Murabaha, Ijara, Mudarabah, Musharakah, Sukuk, and others. Murabaha is a cost-plus-profit financing structure where the seller discloses the cost and profit margin to the buyer. It is widely used due to its simplicity and compliance with Sharia law. In Murabaha transactions, the bank purchases an asset on behalf of the customer and then sells it to the customer at a predetermined profit margin. This structure is commonly used for trade financing, real estate, and personal financing.

Ijara is another popular Islamic financial instrument, akin to a lease agreement. In an Ijara transaction, the bank buys and leases out an asset to the customer for a fixed rental payment. The ownership of the asset remains with the bank, but the customer has the

Islamic Clothing Market Outlook

The global Islamic clothing market size is projected to witness substantial growth from 2023 to 2032, with market figures standing at approximately USD 100 billion in 2023 and expected to reach USD 170 billion by 2032, reflecting a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 6%. The increasing demand for modest fashion across the globe acts as a significant growth driver for the Islamic clothing market. This segment of the fashion industry has seen a surge in popularity, not only among Muslim populations but also among non-Muslims who appreciate the aesthetic and ethical aspects of modest fashion.

One of the primary growth factors for the Islamic clothing market is the rising preference for modest attire influenced by cultural and religious sentiments. This is particularly prevalent among Muslim-majority countries but is also gaining traction in Western countries where multiculturalism and diversity are celebrated. There is an increasing tendency among Muslim women to balance their religious traditions with modern fashion trends, leading to a higher demand for contemporary designs in Islamic clothing. The fashion industry has also seen a shift towards inclusivity and diversity, with many mainstream brands launching modest fashion lines, thereby reaching a broader audience.

The internet and social media platforms have played a crucial role in influencing the growth of the Islamic clothing market. With the increasing penetration of smartphones and the internet, consumers now have easier access to a variety of styles and trends from around the world. Influencers and fashion bloggers focusing on modest fashion have amplified the reach of Islamic clothing, encouraging a more expansive audience to explore this segment. This digital exposure helps bridge the gap between traditional and modern fashion, making Islamic clothing more mainstream and accessible.

Economic growth in key markets with significant Muslim populations is also contributing to the market's expansion. Countries in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa are experiencing higher disposable incomes, leading to increased spending on fashion and lifestyle products, including Islamic clothing. Additionally, tourism has also played a role, where travelers visiting Muslim-majority regions tend to purchase local attire as part of their cultural experience, further boosting the market.

From a regional perspective, the Middle East and Africa hold a prominent share of the Islamic clothing market, driven by a large Muslim population and strong cultural ties to traditional attire. However, North America and Europe are projected to witness significant growth due to the increasing acceptance and popularity of modest fashion among diverse populations. Asia Pacific, with its large Muslim demographic in countries like Indonesia and Malaysia, continues to offer lucrative opportunities for market players. These regions are expected to exhibit varying growth rates, with regions such as Asia Pacific showcasing higher CAGR owing to its growing population and increasing urbanization.

Product Type Analysis

The Islamic clothing market encompasses a diverse range of product types, including abayas, hijabs, thobes, kaftans, and others. Abayas, primarily worn in the Middle East, have evolved from traditional wear to fashion statements, incorporating modern designs and fabrics. Fashion designers are innovating with abayas, integrating contemporary styles while maintaining their modest appeal. This ongoing evolution is making abayas popular not only in the Middle Eastern countries but also among Muslim women worldwide who seek modest yet stylish attire.

Hijabs, another significant segment, have seen a surge in demand due to the increasing number of women embracing this form of headscarf as a part of their daily attire. The hijab market has expanded with an array of styles, colors, and fabrics, catering to the diverse preferences of Muslim women. The growing awareness and acceptance of hijabs in non-Muslim countries have further propelled their demand. Brands are increasingly launching hijab lines, recognizing the economic potential and cultural significance of this product type.

Thobes, traditionally worn by men in Arab countries, are now gaining attention as lifestyle fashion. They are known for their comfort and simplicity, and recent trends have seen thobes being adapted for casual and formal occasions alike. The design innovations in thobes are making them appealing to younger generations who are keen on preserving cultural attire w