On 19 February 2026, the USTR announced a new trade deal with Indonesia which it states will eliminate over 99% of trade barriers for U.S. products. Recent developments in the evolving U.S.–Indonesia trade relationship are expected to strengthen commercial ties between the two countries while reinforcing the importance of halal compliance for consumer products entering the Indonesian market.
In light of these developments, the lead representative on Indonesia affairs at the American Halal Foundation (AHF), Azmi Anees, held a direct discussion with the head of Indonesia’s halal authority, the Halal Product Assurance Organizing Agency (BPJPH), Dr. Haikal Hasan, to better understand how the new trade environment may affect halal certification requirements for U.S. exporters.
Do U.S. Manufacturers Still Need Halal Certification to Comply with the October 2026 Guidelines After the Trade Deal?
AHF’s technical team took a deeper dive into the regulations and the fact sheet accompanying the recent trade deal. While the document indicates that halal certification regulations may not be required for certain new items, clarification was sought directly from BPJPH leadership.
When asked about this matter by the AHF representative, the Head of BPJPH confirmed that Indonesia’s halal regulatory framework remains unchanged despite the new trade dynamics. Halal certification will continue to be mandatory for a wide range of consumer products entering Indonesia, including food, beverages, cosmetics, and other regulated goods. U.S. manufacturers exporting to Indonesia are expected to comply with these requirements, with October 2026 remaining a key milestone for full implementation across major product categories.
Also Read: Import Regulations Indonesia – Laws, Regulations, and Restrictions
During the discussion, BPJPH leadership emphasized that halal compliance will remain a critical element of market access for companies seeking to reach Indonesia’s rapidly growing consumer base. The country represents one of the largest halal consumer markets in the world, making certification an essential requirement for international exporters.
Dr. Haikal Hasan also indicated that closer trade engagement between the United States and Indonesia may create greater opportunities for U.S-based halal certification bodies, particularly those already recognized and experienced in facilitating exports to halal-majority markets. Organizations such as the American Halal Foundation are expected to play an important role in helping U.S. manufacturers navigate regulatory requirements and maintain compliance with Indonesia’s halal assurance framework.
Implications for U.S. Manufacturers
Industry observers also anticipate that the strengthening trade relationship could lead to increased demand for halal certification services, as more U.S. companies seek to expand into Indonesia and other Southeast Asian markets where halal compliance is a key requirement for distribution and retail access.
For U.S. manufacturers and exporters, the message remains clear from the Indonesian Halal Authority, halal certification will continue to be a central component of entering and succeeding in the Indonesian market. Companies that begin preparing early by reviewing ingredients, strengthening documentation, and aligning their production systems with halal standards will be better positioned to take advantage of expanding trade opportunities between the two nations.
Learn More or Get Started with Halal Certification
The American Halal Foundation continues to work closely with industry partners, regulators, and international stakeholders to support U.S. businesses seeking to access global halal markets while maintaining the highest standards of transparency, compliance, and consumer trust.
For guidance on halal certification, regulatory requirements, or export readiness, contact the American Halal Foundation:
- Email: info@halalfoundation.org
- Phone: +1 (630) 759-4989
Azmi Anees is a certification and compliance specialist working with the American Halal Foundation, where he focuses on global halal certification programs, integrated audits, and market-access strategy for food, cosmetic, nutraceutical, and ingredient manufacturers. He has worked closely with multinational brands and SMEs across North America, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. His insights emphasize on practical guidance for manufacturers looking to achieve halal compliance while improving operational efficiency and global market reach.
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