Indonesia Clarifies Mandatory Halal Policy at WTO, Affirming Non-Halal Imports and Streamlining Certification

At a World Trade Organization (WTO) Committee on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) meeting on June 25, 2025, an Indonesian delegation led by Ahmad Haikal Hasan, Head of the Halal Product Assurance Organizing Agency (BPJPH), reaffirmed its policies on the import of non‑halal goods and the ongoing implementation of the foreign halal certificate registration scheme. 

Non-Halal Products Permitted with Clear Labeling 

A primary concern raised by trading partners was the fate of products that are not, or cannot be, halal-certified. Hasan firmly stated that the law is not designed to function as a trade barrier. He confirmed that non-halal products remain welcome in the Indonesian market.

"Products made from non-halal ingredients can still be imported, distributed, and traded in Indonesia," he explained. The key stipulation is a transparency measure for consumer protection: "The crucial requirement is that these products must include a 'non-halal' label on their packaging." This ensures that consumers can make informed choices while allowing for a continued diversity of goods.

New Timeline and Streamlined Registration 

The BPJPH also detailed a significant timeline extension for mandatory certification. In line with Government Regulation (PP) No. 42 of 2024, the deadline for mandatory halal certification for imported food, beverages, and slaughtering services has been postponed to October 17, 2026. The full enforcement of the requirement will begin on October 18, 2026. This extension is intended to provide sufficient time for trading partners to establish mutual recognition agreements and for businesses to prepare for compliance.

Furthermore, the process for foreign halal certified products to enter Indonesia was clarified. Products certified by a foreign halal institution must be registered with BPJPH through its online portal, Sihalal, before entering the market. This registration process, which issues a unique registration number, is designed to ensure the traceability of the product's halal status. Two options for labeling are permitted: using the Indonesian Halal Label with the foreign certificate registration number below it, or displaying the Indonesian Halal Label alongside the recognized foreign halal body's logo and registration number.

International Cooperation and Future Outlook 

Hasan highlighted Indonesia's commitment to international partnership. As of June 2025, Indonesia has signed Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) with 87 foreign halal certification bodies across 32 countries to enhance the global halal trade ecosystem. He affirmed that Indonesia remains open to further cooperation with other international certifiers.

"We hope that a beneficial dialogue with WTO Members can continue to ensure that halal certification supports trade and does not become an unnecessary obstacle," Hasan concluded. "Halal certification is very useful for harnessing the great opportunities and potential of the halal economy... which in turn will contribute to economic growth and public welfare."