Source: Liputan 6

JAKARTA – Indonesia’s decision to eliminate expiration dates for halal certificates has drawn scrutiny from international trading partners, prompting discussions about the long-term validity of halal product certification without mandatory periodic reviews.

New Regulation Sparks International Concern

Member of Commission VIII of Indonesia’s House of Representatives (DPR RI) from the Golkar Party, Aprozi Alam, has highlighted the emerging debate surrounding the implementation of Law No. 6/2023, which removed time limits on halal certificate validity. This legislative change aims to create a more efficient halal ecosystem while supporting the growth of Indonesia’s halal product industry without compromising product integrity.

Aprozi Alam emphasized that the regulation’s core purpose is to streamline bureaucracy and reduce the burden on business operators, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs), in obtaining and maintaining halal certification. “The elimination of certificate expiration dates demonstrates our commitment to accelerating halal certification and establishing Indonesia as the world’s halal industry center,” he stated in a written statement on Tuesday (July 8, 2025).

Trading Partners Express Reservations

The legislator acknowledged that several trading partner nations have raised questions about the validation of halal products certified for life without automatic periodic reviews. During a working meeting between the Halal Product Assurance Organizing Agency (BPJPH) and Commission VIII DPR RI on Monday (July 7, 2025), it was noted that international observers are scrutinizing Indonesia’s decision to change halal certificate validity from the previous 4-year limit to lifetime validity, provided the product continues to be manufactured.

Foreign countries have questioned this decision, arguing that without time-limited certificate validity, the accuracy of product halal status could be compromised after initial certification. “We understand that perspectives from other countries, which have been our markets or partners in the global halal ecosystem, need to be heard objectively. Their concerns about potential long-term halal accuracy without explicit re-verification mechanisms require further examination,” Aprozi explained.

Trust-Based Monitoring System

The Golkar legislator from Lampung 2 electoral district emphasized that the essence of halal certification lies in continuous assurance of product processes and composition. The new regulation operates on the principle of complete trust in business operators to report any changes in ingredients and/or halal product processes to BPJPH.

“This represents a control mechanism expected to maintain halal accuracy. However, the challenge lies in ensuring this reporting mechanism operates effectively with strong field supervision,” he elaborated.

Balancing Efficiency and Integrity

The new law reflects Indonesia’s strategy to position itself as a leader in the global halal industry while maintaining certification integrity. By removing bureaucratic barriers, the government aims to encourage more businesses, especially SMEs, to obtain halal certification, thereby expanding the domestic halal market.

However, international concerns highlight the delicate balance between administrative efficiency and maintaining rigorous halal standards that satisfy global trading partners. The success of this new approach will largely depend on the effectiveness of the self-reporting system and BPJPH’s ability to maintain robust oversight.

Looking Forward

As Indonesia implements this groundbreaking approach to halal certification, the country faces the challenge of addressing international concerns while maintaining its commitment to supporting domestic businesses. The effectiveness of the new system will be crucial in determining whether Indonesia can successfully establish itself as a global halal industry hub while maintaining the trust and confidence of international partners.

The ongoing dialogue between Indonesia and its trading partners reflects the complex nature of international halal trade and the need for certification systems that balance efficiency with credibility in the global marketplace.

Original article:

liputan6.com. (n.d.). Masa Berlaku Sertifikat Halal Disorot Negara Lain, Komisi VIII: RI Komitmen Terhadap Produk Halal. Retrieved July 9, 2025, from https://www.liputan6.com/news/read/6099891/masa-berlaku-sertifikat-halal-disorot-negara-lain-komisi-viii-ri-komitmen-terhadap-produk-halal