Finland: Muslim consumers boost immigrant business

Finland: Muslim consumers boost immigrant business


More and more immigrants are establishing small businesses in Finland. Immigrants make up a third of clients at Helsinki City's business counselling centres. Today services and products aimed at Muslims are especially poised for growth.


The selection of ethnic products in Finland is becoming increasingly diverse. The product offerings at Helsinki's ethnic shops have grown manifold in the past few years. In addition to foodstuffs, shoppers can now find clothing and home furnishings from far-away lands.


"I usually do my shopping at Finnish stores. But I shop at ethnic markets when I'm in the mood for something special," says Mohamed Hassanein.


Immigrants have started some 6,500 businesses in Finland. More than half of these are located in the capital city region. A growing immigrant population and Finns' appreciation of exotic tastes are fuelling the business of ethnic shops. Muslims for example seek out foods that adhere to Islamic dietary restrictions.


Muslims are a fast-growing consumer group. Globally, products and services aimed at Muslims are big business.


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For the moment, however, food products are the most sought-after items among Finland's Muslim population of 40,000.


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Source: YLE (English)

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