Yes. AHF certification is internationally accredited, so manufacturers can use it when exporting to Japan and selling to retailers that ask for halal products.
Check out AHF's accreditations below:
Apply for Halal Certification in Just 5 Minutes!
Everything is halal except for ABCD, which is considered non-halal (haram):
Halal certification is rapidly becoming a key factor for manufacturers in Japan, driven by both market demand and practical benefits. Here are 3 reasons why manufacturers are increasingly seeking halal certification for exports to Japan:
Many major retailers, supermarkets, and food service chains in Japan are now requesting halal-certified products to cater to their diverse clientele, as well as due to the government's efforts to promote halal. Manufacturers who are halal-certified find it easier to secure contracts and shelf space in these outlets, giving them a direct advantage in the market.
With Japan's expanding tourism industry, especially from Muslim-majority countries, the demand for halal products is skyrocketing. Halal certification opens doors to this market, allowing manufacturers to meet the needs of millions of Muslim tourists and residents who actively seek halal options.
Getting halal-certified (from an accredited body such as AHF) ensures manufacturers are adhering to the highest standards for Muslim consumers, subsequently allowing them to gain a competitive edge over their rivals.
Here's a detailed look at what's involved in obtaining halal certification in Japan:
To start the certification process, businesses must submit an application along with essential documentation that outlines their product details, ingredients, and production processes. This includes:
Implementing a Halal Assurance System (HAS) is a core requirement for halal certification. This system ensures that all processes, from sourcing to production, comply with halal standards. Key aspects include:
An on-site audit is conducted by the certification body to verify that the business complies with all halal standards. The audit includes a thorough inspection of:
Following the audit, AHF's technical team will review the findings and issue halal certification. The halal certificate issued is valid for a specific period (usually 1 to 3 years), after which re-certification is required.
Towards the end of the certification period, businesses are required to complete the recertification application and identify any changes to the products, ingredients, or facility since the previous audit.
American Halal Foundation (AHF) is a leading globally accredited Halal certification provider - with over $1 Billion + in revenue growth achieved by businesses through its certifications. AHF offers a streamlined and internationally recognized certification process, making it easier for Japanese businesses to enter and thrive in halal markets.
The north star of AHF certification is Universal Consumer Acceptance. AHF uniquely certifies to the highest halal standards acceptable to all 2 billion halal consumers.
Halal Product Assurance Organizing Body (BPJPH)
Indonesia
The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM)
Malaysia
World Halal Food Council (WHFC)
Global
The Central Islamic Council of Thailand (CICOT)
Thailand
GCC Accreditation Center (GAC)
Saudi Arabia
Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura (MUIS)
Singapore
Saudi Halal CenterSaudi Arabia
Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO)Saudi ArabiaHalal Product Assurance Organizing Body (BPJPH)IndonesiaThe Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM)MalaysiaWorld Halal Food Council (WHFC)GlobalThe Central Islamic Council of Thailand (CICOT)ThailandGCC Accreditation Center (GAC)Saudi ArabiaMajlis Ugama Islam Singapura (MUIS)SingaporeSaudi Halal CenterSaudi ArabiaSaudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO)Saudi ArabiaThe window to gain a competitive edge through halal certification in Japan is narrowing as more businesses recognize its growing importance. Investing in halal certification for your products or facility is a modest commitment that can yield significant returns and open doors to new markets. Interested in exploring halal certification for exports to Japan? Get in touch with AHF here to obtain a quote!
Indonesia has extended mandatory halal certification for specified product and service categories to October 2028. See which categories are excluded and what AHF clients should do.
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