The Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development (ICCD) has announced the launch of the B57+ Initiative during the 2025 Business Leaders Summit in Istanbul, marking a significant step forward in economic cooperation and private-sector integration among member states of the Islamic world. The initiative, launched in partnership with the Standing Committee for Economic and Commercial Cooperation of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (COMCEC), seeks to build a comprehensive global network connecting business leaders, investors, and financial institutions from 75 countries. Its goal is to deepen intra-Islamic trade, stimulate sustainable development, and reinforce economic integration across the OIC member states. According to ICCD, the B57+ platform aims to move beyond dialogue and foster tangible partnerships and real investment ventures that can translate into measurable economic outcomes. The initiative also seeks to align private-sector efforts with government priorities, helping to shape joint development policies that promote shared prosperity and inclusive growth. A key focus of the initiative is youth empowerment, through the creation of a more business-friendly ecosystem that offers opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs across Islamic economies. By enabling access to networks, capital, and mentorship, B57+ aims to cultivate the next generation of business leaders who can drive innovation and competitiveness in their respective markets. Abdullah Saleh Kamel, Chairperson of the ICCD, described the initiative as "a new platform to empower the private sector to work in tandem with governments in building a more resilient and prosperous economic future." He added that the summit comes in response to growing demand from OIC member states for a dynamic mechanism that connects policymakers and private-sector leaders to accelerate cooperation and facilitate joint investment projects across key sectors. Established in 1977 as an international non-governmental organisation affiliated with the OIC, the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development serves as the official representative of the private sector in member countries. Over the years, it has played a pivotal role in promoting digital trade, cross-border investment, and joint development projects, positioning itself as a driving force for economic collaboration among Islamic nations. Through the B57+ Initiative, ICCD aims to translate its vision of economic solidarity into actionable frameworks, harnessing collective strengths and shared values to unlock new opportunities for growth and prosperity across the Islamic world.
