Indonesia Confirms Mandatory Halal Certification Will Not Be Postponed
Indonesia has confirmed that the launch of its mandatory halal certification system will proceed as planned, with no additional delays.
Government representatives announced this position during discussions at the World Trade Organization (WTO) on March 5, 2026, confirming that the “Wajib Halal Oktober 2026” policy remains in effect. The government does not intend to introduce an additional transition period.
The system is overseen by Indonesia’s Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH), which is responsible for implementing the national halal certification framework.
Non-Halal Products Will Still Be Allowed
Indonesian authorities emphasized that the new rules do not prohibit non-halal products.
Such products can still be imported and sold in Indonesia. However, they must carry clear labeling stating that the product is not halal.
At the same time, Indonesia continues to apply a mutual recognition mechanism for halal certification. Foreign halal certificates may be accepted if they are issued by certification bodies that have been officially recognized by Indonesian regulators.
Key Deadlines Under the Halal Certification System
The legal basis for the system is established by Government Regulation No. 42 of 2024, which regulates the implementation of Indonesia’s Halal Product Assurance System.
According to the regulation:
Micro and small businesses operating in the sectors of food, beverages, and slaughter services have a transition period until October 17, 2026.
By the same date, Indonesia plans to finalize requirements for mandatory halal certification of imported products in these categories.
Halal compliance requirements apply not only to production but also to storage, packaging, and logistics throughout the supply chain.
These measures significantly expand the scope of halal regulation across the food industry.
Expanding International Cooperation
Indonesia is also working to broaden international recognition of its halal certification system.
In late February 2026, BPJPH signed mutual recognition agreements with halal certification organizations from:
the Philippines
Mexico
China.
These agreements do not eliminate the requirement for halal certification in Indonesia. However, they simplify the process for products that have already been certified by recognized foreign certification bodies.
What This Means for Businesses and Importers
For companies involved in the food industry or related services in Indonesia, the upcoming rules mean that preparing for halal certification should start well before the deadline.
Businesses should take into account that:
starting October 17, 2026, many food product categories must have a halal certificate to be sold in Indonesia
the halal compliance system covers the entire supply chain, from production to storage and distribution
imported products may also fall under mandatory halal certification requirements
non-halal products can still be sold, but they must include clear labeling indicating their status.
Support for Businesses
Navigating halal certification can be complex, especially for international companies entering the Indonesian market.
Legal Indonesia assists businesses throughout the halal certification process — from preparing documentation to communicating with regulators. This support is particularly relevant for:
food manufacturers
restaurant owners
importers planning to operate in Indonesia.
With the October 2026 deadline approaching, early preparation can help businesses avoid delays and ensure compliance with Indonesia’s evolving regulatory framework.
