This in-depth guide covers all you need to know about obtaining Halal certification in Indonesia. Whether you are entering the food, cosmetics, or health industry, securing Halal certification is essential for accessing the Indonesian market and expanding your customer base. This guide outlines the mandatory requirements, certification process, key components of the Halal Assurance System (HAS 23000), and dispels common myths about Halal certification.

For businesses in Indonesia, especially in the food, cosmetics, and health sectors, Halal certification is crucial. It ensures that products adhere to Islamic dietary laws, thereby earning the trust and acceptance of Muslim consumers. Given Indonesia’s large Muslim population, Halal certification is mandatory for certain product categories to ensure compliance with Islamic dietary standards.

Products Requiring Halal Certification

In Indonesia, specific product categories must obtain Halal certification to be legally sold. These include:

1. Food and Beverages: All consumable goods must be certified.
2. Traditional Medicines and Supplements: Herbal and traditional medicines must meet Halal criteria.
3. Over-the-Counter (OTC) and Limited OTC Drugs: Medications that do not require a prescription.
4. Pharmaceuticals (excluding psychotropics): Drugs that are not psychotropic substances.
5. Fashion, Headdresses, and Accessories: Clothing and accessories, particularly those used in Islamic practices.
6. Household and Office Supplies: Everyday items used at home and in offices.

Exemptions from Halal Certification

According to Government Regulation No. 39 of 2021, certain products are exempt from Halal certification if they are made from ingredients deemed haram (prohibited) in Islamic Law. These include:

• Alcoholic beverages
• Pork, dog meat, and their derivatives
• Products with names or symbols associated with disobedience
• Items containing certain artificial ingredients (e.g., specific flavorings, citric acid, lecithin)

The Halal Certification Process

The process for obtaining Halal certification in Indonesia depends on the size of the business:

1. General Certification Process (for large businesses):

• Verification Stage: Submit an application to the Halal Product Assurance Organizing Agency (BPJPH) with the necessary documents.
• Evaluation Stage: A Halal auditor from the Halal Inspection Institution (LPH) will inspect your production facility and review your products.
• Review Stage: The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) determines the Halal status through a Halal Fatwa Assembly.

This comprehensive process is designed for businesses with substantial assets and production capacities.

2. Self-Declaration Process (for MSMEs):

• Simplified Certification: Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) can self-declare their compliance with Halal standards.
• Requirements: Although the process is simpler and less expensive, specific guidelines and requirements must still be met to ensure products adhere to Halal standards.

Renewal of Halal Certification

Halal certification in Indonesia is valid for four years. If there are changes in product composition, businesses must renew the certification immediately. Otherwise, the renewal should be completed no later than three months before the certificate’s expiration date.

Halal Assurance System (HAS 23000)

The Halal Assurance System (HAS 23000) is a critical framework for ensuring products consistently meet Halal standards. Key components include:

1. Commitment and Responsibility: Management must establish a Halal Management Team and allocate necessary resources.
2. Halal Policy: A written policy demonstrating commitment to Halal production must be communicated to all stakeholders.
3. Halal Management Team: This team oversees the Halal system with clearly defined roles and responsibilities.
4. Training: Regular training (at least annually) is required to enhance knowledge and skills related to Halal standards.
5. Material Management: Proper classification and documentation of materials as Halal or non-Halal.
6. Production Facilities: Facilities must adhere to Halal standards, preventing cross-contamination.
7. Procedures for Critical Activities: Detailed procedures for new materials or changes in production processes.
8. Handling Non-Compliant Products: Plans to destroy or recall non-compliant products.
9. Product Standards: Products must not resemble haram items, and all variants under a brand must comply with Halal guidelines.
10. Tracking Capability: A system to trace all certified products back to their materials and production processes.

Common Misconceptions About Halal Certification

1. Halal Certification is Permanent: Certification must be renewed periodically, usually every four years.
2. Only Muslim-Owned Businesses Can Obtain Halal Certification: Any business can apply for Halal certification if they comply with Halal standards.
3. Halal Certification is Prohibitively Expensive and Time-Consuming: While there are costs involved, they are generally reasonable, especially for MSMEs.
4. Halal Certification Focuses Only on the Final Product: The entire supply chain must comply with Halal standards.
5. All Ingredients Need Individual Certification: Not all ingredients require separate certification if they are on the Positive List.
6. Halal Management Team: The team does not need to be Muslim but must understand and ensure compliance with HAS 23000.
7. Foreign Halal Certification is Not Recognized: Foreign certifications can be accepted if they comply with Indonesian regulations.

Unique Requirements in Indonesia

Indonesia has specific requirements such as avoiding non-Halal names or symbols. Examples include:

• Rum Raisin Ice Cream: Names cannot contain non-Halal words.
• Satan Noodles: References to evil spirits are forbidden.
• Valentine’s Chocolate: Names associated with non-Islamic practices are not compliant.

Partnering with CPT Corporate for Halal Certification

CPT Corporate provides comprehensive assistance for obtaining Halal certification in Indonesia. Their local experts ensure your products meet Halal standards and are correctly labeled for the Indonesian market. CPT Corporate supports businesses through both the general certification process for large enterprises and the self-declarative process for MSMEs, streamlining and simplifying the certification journey.

Conclusion

Obtaining Halal certification is vital for businesses in Indonesia’s food, cosmetics, and health sectors. The certification process ensures products comply with Islamic dietary laws, gaining consumer trust and market access. Understanding the certification requirements allows businesses to navigate the process effectively and maintain compliance. CPT Corporate offers expert guidance to help secure Halal certification and ensure products meet Indonesian standards.

For more detailed information and personalized assistance, contact CPT Corporate to guide you through the Halal certification process, ensuring your products meet Halal standards and are correctly labeled for the Indonesian market.