BUSINESSES in East Lancashire who supply products and services to Muslims are being urged to tap into the global boom in halal tourism.

Halal tourism experts say the rise in Muslim friendly travel - currently worth £95 billion - could be worth millions for Lancashire companies in Blackburn and Burnley and create a route to do business on an international level.

CM Media, who have co-organised the Halal Tourism Conference 2015, which will be held in Turkey in December, say the event will provide an excellent platform for businesses in the region especially in travel, finance and food and drink sectors.

Director Tasneem Mahmood said the Halal tourism could provide a key growth area for the Lancashire economy especially the huge Turkish travel market.

She said: “The Halal tourism sector across the world is not only growing at a very fast rate, but is also now maturing with many parts of the travel sector now looking to capitalise.

“There are plenty established and upcoming Lancashire businesses across a number of sectors from travel to food and drink who are leaders in their field and this is a real chance to get on the global stage.

“Regardless of faith those, those who provide products for Muslim consumers can capitalise and avail of this excellent opportunity."