The Complete Indonesia Halal Certification Guide for Exports [Updated 2024]

While halal certification in Indonesia has long served as a vital indicator of compliance with Islamic dietary laws, as of 17th October 2024, Indonesia moves toward implementing mandatory halal certification for food, beverages, and related products. 

This essentially means in order to sell products in Indonesia, foreign exporters must obtain mandatory halal certification and register with the Indonesian government.

This AHF guide is the most complete resource available, providing everything you need to comply with the new guidelines. It features a detailed step-by-step process, complete halal certification requirements, ready-to-use templates, checklists, and much more to support your successful export to Indonesia.

1.0 AHF’s Role in Providing BPJPH Accredited Halal Certification

In Indonesia, the halal certification process has undergone significant changes, particularly with the establishment of the Halal Product Assurance Organizing Agency (BPJPH) under the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

This body was established in October 2017 to take over the responsibility of halal certification from the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), which had been the primary authority for over a decade.

• BPJPH’s Role: BPJPH is now the central authority responsible for regulating and overseeing halal certification in Indonesia. It ensures that products meet the criteria set by the Halal Products Assurance Law (UUJPH) and works closely with Halal Inspection Bodies (LPH³) to verify compliance.
• Transition from MUI: Although MUI continues to play a role, particularly in issuing fatwas (Islamic legal opinions) related to halal matters, BPJPH is the primary body that businesses must engage with for certification. This transition has led to some confusion among businesses, making it essential to understand the specific requirements and processes now governed by BPJPH.

The American Halal Foundation (AHF) is accredited by BPJPH and other governments globally to provide halal certification for exports.

Check Out: American Halal Foundation (AHF) Achieves BPJPH Accreditation

2.0 What is the New Indonesia Halal Certification Law?

The Halal Product Assurance Law, also known as Law No. 33 of 2014, mandates that all products entering, circulating, and being traded within Indonesia must be halal-certified.

This law was amended by Government Regulation No. 2 of 2022 on Job Creation to further streamline the certification process and ensure broader compliance.

Key points include:

• All food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and other consumables must be halal-certified by October 17, 2024. This requirement applies to both domestic products and imports.
• The law covers a wide range of products beyond just food and beverages. It includes cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, biological products, genetically engineered products, and consumer goods utilized by the community.
• The law provides legal certainty regarding the halal status of products. The BPJPH, in coordination with other bodies like MUI, ensures that the certification process is transparent and consistent with Islamic principles.
• Businesses must ensure that their entire supply chain, from raw materials to final packaging, complies with halal standards. This includes maintaining a halal product assurance system (HPAS) that documents all aspects of production, storage, and distribution.

3.0 Step-by-Step Guide to Indonesia Halal Certification Process for Exports

Stage	Description
1. Submission Stage/Registration	AHF will submit your application along with company documents, a list of goods and supplies used, and production management details to the Indonesian authority for review.
2. Inspection Stage/Verification	After submission and payment of the relevant fees. An AHF will be assigned for product and processing inspection.
3. Examination Stage	AHF will submit it’s examination report, which will be reviewed by the Indonesian authorities based on the inspection findings.
4. Determination Stage	Based on AHF’s findings, the Halal Fatwa Assembly will determine the status of the product and inform AHF on approval or rejection.
5. Payment Stage	Upon verification, payment will have to be made within 7 working days to avoid application cancellation.
6. Issuance Stage	After receiving approval, AHF issues the Halal Certification for the product.

4.0 Guide to Registering on the SIHALAL Website

Here’s a detailed breakdown to register products through SIHALAL:

Step 1. Create an Account and Register with BPJPH on the SIHALAL Website

• Website: The registration process begins on the official SIHALAL⁴ website.  
• Account Creation: Businesses must create an account by registering their email with BPJPH.

• Profile Setup: Once registered, the business needs to complete its profile, providing detailed information about the company, its products, and the intended market.

Step 2. Login into Account

Step 3. Submission

1. Authorizer Name is filled in with the name of the person granting the power of attorney (Foreign Company).

2. Authorized Name is filled in with the name of the authorized person (domestic company/importer).

3. Fill in the date the letter was created.

4. Fill in the letter number.

5. Upload the LoA document. The format is adjusted to company policy, but at least contains what has been written in the Note section.

6. Click SAVE.

More About Apostille:

• A list of countries that are members of the Apostille convention can be seen at: https://www.hcch.net/en/instruments/conventions/status-table/?cid=41
• Apostille documents can be processed by the owner of the original document
• in the country of origin.
• The Apostille online verification link can be requested from the Apostille document issuer.

If the Apostille cannot be verified online, the importer must make a statement that includes at least:

1. Name of the head of the importing company;
2. Importer Company Name;
3. Apostille document number;
4. The document number to be Apostilled, in this case SHLN;
5. Statement that the attached Apostille document is correct for the SHLN to be registered;
6. Signature of the person giving the statement (company leader).

Next: 

1. Upload the SHLN Registration Application Letter, the template is available on the Download FHCR Application Letter Doc Format button.

2. Upload the Importer’s Business License Number (NIB) document.

3. Click SAVE.

Record History: if a return occurs, the return record will be recorded in  ‘Record History’.

If there are other products, repeat the above steps.

Step 4- Fill the Data to Product Section

Input by Excel

• To make it easier to fill in the product list, you can also input products using Excel:
• Select the name of the factory (Manufacture). (The selected factory will appear in the Excel file, so 1 Excel format is only intended for 1 submission).
• Click Download Excel Format, the Excel format will be automatically downloaded.
• Fill Excel with a list of products and their HS Codes.
• Upload the filled Excel document by clicking the green Upload Excel button.
• Once all the data is filled in and the document is uploaded, click BACK at the top right of the page to return to the main menu.

Input by Excel

• Fill in the list of product names to be registered.
• Select the Manufacture (production location) of the related product. (The Manufacture column can only be filled based on the dropdown of the data inputted in SIHALAL, make sure not to type manually in the Excel file).
• Enter the 8-digit HS Code in the format XXXX.XX.XX.
• Fill in the HS Code Description according to product specifications.
• After all product data is filled in, save the Excel file.
• Upload the Excel document, return to SIHALAL, click Upload.

Step 5- Submit Application

Before submitting, make sure all data and documents have been filled in correctly according to the applicable terms and conditions. Once complete and correct, submit the application:

1. Click SUBMIT at the top of the page.
2. A notification pop-up will appear as a final confirmation that the documents and data entered are correct and complete.
3. Click  Submit.
4. Your application has been entered into the BPJPH verification system and is ready to undergo data and document verification.

Check ongoing applications on the page Submission List.

Submitted applications will move to the Submission List menu with Submitted status. The steps to check the application are as follows:

1. Click the SHLN Registration menu on the left side of the page
2. Click the Submission List. A submission list will appear, make sure the status is Submitted.
3. To view the application, click on the green eye.
4. The submission will appear as shown in the attached image.

Perform corrections of data and documents when there is a return of the submission.

1. If the verification results show errors and/or missing documents, the application will be returned to the importer for correction.
2. Go to the Submission List page and check the  submission with Returned status.
3. To view the verification result return record, click the green eye symbol.
4. The submission display will appear, then click EDIT and do the same steps as in the previous step.

Perform corrections of data and documents when there is a return of the submission.

1. Check the return records in the Tracking section of each menu.
2. Correct the data/documents according to the return notes.
3. Click SAVE.
4. When all entries have been corrected and completed, click BACK and then click SUBMIT in the main submission menu.
5. Add Notes for notes to the verifier (optional).

Status:

• Verified: has been verified 
• Returned: there is a return.

Step 6- Payment

5.0 Supporting Documents Required to Register Halal Certificate with BPJPH

6.0 Summary of Required Documents for Halal Certification

Below is the comprehensive list of documents you will need to apply for an Indonesia recognized halal certificate:

1. Application Letter: A formal application letter requesting foreign halal certificate registration.
2. Letter of Authorization (LoA): This is a letter of agreement from the company in the country of origin, granting authority to the applicant to carry out the application for foreign halal certificate registration. This letter must include a clause granting rights and/or authority to the applicant as the appointed company.
3. Business Permit Number (NIB): The NIB is a mandatory requirement for the importer and/or official representative in Indonesia. It serves as proof of the business’s legitimacy and is essential for the halal certification process.
4. Foreign Halal Certificate: A copy of the halal certificate for the products that will be imported into Indonesia, which has been authorized by the Indonesian representative abroad. If the halal certification body (HCB) is from a country under the Apostille Convention, an Apostille certificate document is required.
5. List of Goods: A detailed list of the goods to be imported into Indonesia, complete with their harmonized system code numbers.
6. Statement Letter: A statement letter confirming that the submitted documents are correct and valid. This letter must be signed by the authorized representative and is a critical part of the document submission process.
7. Translation of Documents: If any required documents are in a language other than English, they must be accompanied by a certified translation into English by a sworn translator.

7.0 Specific Requirements for Food, Beverages, Cosmetics, and Other Products

Here’s a breakdown of the specific requirements for Indonesia’s halal certification among key sectors:

1. Food and Beverages

• All ingredients, including additives and processing aids, must be halal-certified. This includes ensuring that no haram substances, such as pork or alcohol, are present in any part of the production process.
• Facilities must be free from contamination with haram substances. This includes the use of separate equipment for halal and non-halal products, thorough cleaning processes, and strict monitoring of cross-contamination risks.
• Packaging materials must be halal, and products must be labeled with the halal logo issued by BPJPH. The label should not include any misleading symbols or names that could suggest haram elements.
• The entire supply chain, from sourcing to distribution, must comply with halal standards. This includes ensuring that all suppliers and subcontractors adhere to halal principles.

2. Cosmetics and Pharmaceuticals

• Non-Animal Derived Ingredients: All ingredients derived from animals must come from halal sources. This is particularly relevant for ingredients like gelatin, which is commonly used in capsules and cosmetics.
• Alcohol Content: While alcohol is generally considered haram, certain alcohols used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals (e.g., ethanol for medicinal purposes) may be permissible under specific conditions. However, these must be thoroughly reviewed and approved by BPJPH.
• Testing and Validation: Products must be tested to ensure they are free from haram substances. This includes both the final product and any intermediate products used during the manufacturing process.
• Documentation and Record-Keeping: Detailed records of all ingredients, production processes, and testing results must be maintained and available for review during halal audits.

3. Other Products (e.g., Consumer Goods)

• Biodegradable and Synthetic Materials: Products made from biodegradable or synthetic materials must be assessed for halal compliance, particularly if they come into contact with food or are ingested.
• Genetically Engineered Products: If genetically engineered organisms or products are used, they must be evaluated to ensure they do not involve haram elements.
• Traceability: There must be a clear and documented traceability system in place to track all materials and products through the supply chain, ensuring their halal status is maintained at every stage.

8.0 General Halal Certification Compliance Requirements

Here are the Indonesia halal certification compliance requirements for exporters: 

Halal Certification Compliance	Details
Requirements	– Company/business details – Product name and type – Product data and materials used – Product processing – Halal product assurance/guarantee system document
Certification Validation	4 years
Renewal Requirement	– 3 months before the expiration date – Copy of Halal Certificate – A statement letter explaining that the registered product has not changed

9.0 Compliance with Materials and Production Processes

Businesses are also required to comply with Indonesia’s halal standards for materials and production processes. Here are the general requirements:

1. Materials Management

• Approved Materials List: All materials used in the production of halal products must be on the BPJPH-approved list. If a business intends to use a new material, it must seek approval from BPJPH before incorporating it into the production process.
• Non-Critical Ingredients: For materials that are considered non-critical (i.e., they do not directly impact the halal status of the product), businesses may have some flexibility, but these materials still require thorough documentation and approval.

2. Production Processes

• Separate Production Lines: If a facility produces both halal and non-halal products, the production lines must be entirely separate, with no shared equipment or storage areas.
• Cleaning and Sanitation: All production equipment and facilities must be cleaned according to Islamic guidelines, particularly if there is any risk of contamination from haram substances. This may include specific washing procedures, such as those required for equipment that has come into contact with pork.
• Monitoring and Auditing: Regular internal audits must be conducted to ensure ongoing compliance with halal standards. Any deviations or non-compliance issues must be addressed immediately, and corrective actions must be documented and reported.

3. Packaging and Labeling

There are specific packaging requirements in place in the new guidelines for exports to Indonesia. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown in line with the latest regulations.

1. Mandatory Use of the Halal Label: All products that have obtained halal certification must include the Indonesian halal label on their packaging. This label is non-negotiable and must be displayed prominently, ensuring visibility to consumers. This means your packaging design needs to allocate enough space for the halal label in a way that doesn’t get lost among other elements.
2. Transition to the New Halal Label: If your products previously used the MUI (Indonesian Ulema Council) halal logo, it’s time to make the switch. However, you have until February 2, 2026, to transition to the new halal label. Any packaging printed after this date must strictly use the new logo.
3. Options During Transition: You can either deplete your current packaging stock with the MUI logo until the deadline, gradually introduce the BPJPH logo alongside the MUI logo for some products, or redesign your packaging entirely to feature the BPJPH halal label as per Decree No. 40 of 2022.
4. Design Specifications for the BPJPH Halal Label: The primary color for the BPJPH halal logo is Pantone purple 2613 C (#670075). This color choice symbolizes faith, unity, and imagination, and it’s crucial to use this exact shade to ensure consistency.
5. Monochrome Use: In cases where color printing isn’t feasible, manufacturers can use a black or white version of the logo. However, this is only permitted if the packaging background affects logo visibility or if you have technical limitations in printing.
6. Logo Placement and Size: The halal label for Indonesia, according to the requirements, has a main and secondary logo, each with specific size ratios. Manufacturers must ensure they use the main logo for standard packaging sizes and the secondary version for unconventional or extreme size requirements like banners or billboards.
7. Certificate Number: The halal certification number must be included with the logo. For domestic products, this number should be displayed directly below the halal logo. For foreign products, the registration number should be placed below the local halal logo.
8. Exemptions to Halal Labeling: Not every product needs to display the label. Here’s who’s exempt:

• Small Packaging: Products with very limited space that cannot fit all necessary information.
• Direct Sales Packaging: Items packaged in small quantities directly in front of buyers.
• Bulk Products: Products sold in bulk without individual packaging.

Where to Get the New Halal Label for Indonesia?

Once you have obtained halal certification for Indonesia from AHF, the halal committee will issue a Indonesia approved halal logo and label. Make sure you use the exact digital file to maintain clarity and quality.

10.0 General Halal Product Process (PPH) Requirements

The Halal Product Process (PPH⁷) essentially includes all activities from sourcing materials to final product packaging and distribution. Here are the guidelines businesses must adhere to ensure halal integrity:

1. Location, Place, and Equipment for Halal Product Processing

• Halal products must be processed in facilities that are entirely separate from those used for non-halal products. This includes separate storage, production, and packaging areas.
• Facilities must maintain high standards of cleanliness to prevent any cross-contamination with haram substances. This includes regular inspections and sanitation of all equipment and production areas.

2. Traceability and Documentation

• Businesses must implement robust traceability systems to track all materials and products through the supply chain. This includes maintaining records of material origins, production processes, and distribution channels.
• All aspects of the halal production process must be documented, including material approvals, production records, and sanitation procedures. These documents must be readily available for inspection by BPJPH and Halal Inspection Bodies (LPH).

3. Monitoring and Evaluation

• Regular internal audits must be conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the Halal Product Assurance System (HPAS) and ensure ongoing compliance with BPJPH standards.
• If any non-compliance is identified during an audit, immediate corrective actions must be taken, and the incident must be documented and reported to BPJPH.

11.0 Post Certification

Here are the actions required after the issuance of the halal certification:

Action Required After Issuance of Halal Certification	Details
Attach Registration Number Near Halal Label	The Foreign Halal Certificate registration number must be attached near the halal label on the product packaging. This applies to certain parts of the product and/or certain places on the product, as specified by BPJPH’s labeling provisions.
Report Changes to Certification Data	If there are any changes to the data on the Foreign Halal Certificate that has been assigned a registration number by BPJPH, the importer/official representative is required to report these changes promptly.
Maintaining Product Halal Integrity	Continuously ensure that the halal status of products is maintained throughout all stages, including processing, storage, and distribution.
Segregation of Halal and Non-Halal Products	Strictly separate the locations and processes, including slaughter, processing, storage, packaging, distribution, sales, and presentation, for halal and non-halal products.
Update Registration Number Upon Expiry	The importer/official representative must update the Foreign Halal Certificate registration number if the validity period expires. This ensures that the product remains compliant with halal certification requirements.
Update Ingredient Composition/Harmonization System Code	Promptly inform BPJPH of any changes in the composition of ingredients to maintain the halal status of the product. Also, if a discrepancy is found between the proposed harmonization system code and that listed in the certification, the importer/official representative is required to update the harmonization system code accordingly.

12.0 Common Challenges You May Face in Halal Certification for Exports

Businesses can encounter a range of challenges during the export process to Indonesia after the new laws take effect. Here are a few challenges you may face:

Challenge 1. Interpreting Halal Regulations

Indonesia’s halal certification regulations are comprehensive and detailed as different products have different requirements under the guidelines. For instance, food products may require more stringent measures related to sourcing and production than cosmetic products. 

Therefore, the legal framework, which includes multiple laws, decrees, and amendments, must be carefully studied to ensure full compliance.

Challenge 2. Managing the Certification Process

This is one of the most significant challenges businesses face is compiling and submitting the necessary documentation. The BPJPH requires detailed information on materials, production processes, facility layouts, and more.

Moreover, as the halal certification required is not limited to the final product but extends to all ingredients and materials used in production, businesses must therefore ensure their suppliers also comply with halal standards through close coordination and communication. 

Challenge 3. Long Processing Times: 

The certification process can take several months, depending on the complexity of the product and the efficiency of the BPJPH. Businesses must plan ahead and submit their applications well in advance of any planned export activities to avoid delays.

Challenge 4. Supply Chain and Logistics Challenges:

Ensuring that all components of the supply chain comply with halal standards is a major challenge. This includes verifying that raw materials, additives, and even packaging materials are halal-certified and that there is no risk of contamination during transportation and storage.

Businesses must ensure that their logistical partners are familiar with halal requirements and that all stages of the supply chain maintain the product’s halal integrity.

Challenge 5. Addressing Bureaucratic Processes

The halal certification process in Indonesia involves multiple stakeholders, including the BPJPH, Halal Inspection Bodies (LPH), and the Indonesian Council of Ulama (MUI). Coordinating between these entities and ensuring all requirements are met can be a bureaucratic process.

Acquire Indonesia Halal Certification for Exports Through AHF! 

The key to successfully navigating Indonesia’s complex new export requirements lies in proactive preparation and partnering with a BPJPH-accredited halal certification body.

Interested in acquiring halal certification for exports to Indonesia? Get in touch with AHF—the leading halal certification body in North America! 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What should I do if my halal certification application is rejected?

A: Carefully review the reasons for rejection and address the issues raised. You may need to provide additional documentation or make changes to your product or process.

Q2: What are the common challenges faced during halal certification?

A: Common challenges include interpreting regulations, managing the certification process, long processing times, supply chain issues, and bureaucratic processes.

Q3: What documents are required for halal certification?

A: Required documents include a letter of authorization, legal documents, letter of appointment for a halal supervisor, process flow chart, ingredients list, and a Halal Product Assurance System (HPAS) manual.

Appendix: 

	Action Item	Completed
1. Pre-Registration Requirements	Compile company documents (e.g., Business Permit, NIB).	[ ]
	Prepare a detailed list of products with HS codes.	[ ]
	Ensure all ingredients and materials are halal-compliant and sourced from approved suppliers.	[ ]
3. Registering on the SIHALAL Website	Step 1: Create an Account Register on www.ptsp.halal.go.id.	[ ]
	Complete company profile setup.	[ ]
	Step 2: Login to Your Account Ensure login credentials are secure and updated.	[ ]
	Step 3: Submission Submit company documents, product lists, and relevant forms.	[ ]
	Step 4: Product Data Entry Input product details manually or via Excel upload.	[ ]
	Step 5: Submit Application Review and confirm all details before final submission.	[ ]
4. Supporting Documents Checklist	Application Letter	[ ]
	Letter of Authorization (LoA)	[ ]
	Foreign Halal Certificate (with Apostille, if applicable)	[ ]
	Business Permit Number (NIB)	[ ]
	List of Goods with HS Codes	[ ]
	Statement Letter confirming document accuracy	[ ]
	Certified English translations (if applicable)	[ ]
6. Post-Certification Actions	Attach the BPJPH registration number near the halal label on product packaging.	[ ]
	Plan for certification renewal at least 3 months before expiration.	[ ]
7. Contact AHF for Assistance	Utilize AHF’s resources and support for compliance and certification needs.	[ ]

Glossary: 

1. BPJPH: Badan Penyelenggara Jaminan Produk Halal (Halal Product Assurance Organizing Agency). The government agency responsible for halal certification in Indonesia.
2. MUI: Majelis Ulama Indonesia (Indonesian Council of Ulama). An Islamic council that previously handled halal certification before BPJPH.
3. LPH: Lembaga Pemeriksa Halal (Halal Inspection Body). An organization authorized by BPJPH to conduct halal audits and inspections.
4. SIHALAL: The online system for halal certification applications in Indonesia.
5. UUJPH: Undang-Undang Jaminan Produk Halal (Halal Product Assurance Law). The Indonesian law governing halal certification.
6. HPAS: Halal Product Assurance System. A system implemented by businesses to ensure the halal status of their products.
7. PPH: Proses Produk Halal (Halal Product Process). The entire process of producing a halal product, from sourcing to distribution.
8. Apostille: A certification that authenticates the origin of a public document.

Sources: 

• Law No. 33 of 2014 concerning Halal Product Assurance
• Government Regulation No. 39 of 2021
• Decree of the Minister of Religion Number 748 of 2021
• BPJPH’s Official Guidelines and Manuals
• BPJPH Website
• Press Release on AHF’s BPJPH Accreditation