How to Get Halal Certification for Foreign Products in Indonesia

Getting halal certification for foreign products that want to enter the Indonesian market is essential for businesses aiming to cater to Muslim consumers. Indonesia, with the largest Muslim population in the world, has strict regulations for ensuring that products are halal-compliant. If your company is looking to obtain halal certification in Indonesia, here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the process smoothly.

Requirements for Halal Certification in Indonesia

For companies outside of Indonesia, the process of obtaining halal certification involves partnering with an importer or official representative in Indonesia. Below are the key requirements:

1. Submit a New or Renewal Registration Request: The registration application for a new or renewed foreign halal certificate must be submitted by the applicant through their importer or official representative in Indonesia. This process is carried out via the Indonesian Halal Information System, known as SIHALAL.
2. Attach the Necessary Documents: It’s important to submit all the required documents. If any documents are in a language other than English, they must be translated into English by a certified translator.
3. Extend Certification in Time: If you already have a foreign halal certification, you must apply for a renewal at least three months before the certificate expires. Failing to meet this deadline may result in delays or cancellations.

Documents Needed for Halal Certification

To proceed with the halal certification application through the SIHALAL web-based platform, the following documents are required:

1. Application Letter for Foreign Halal Certificate Registration: A formal request letter for registering your foreign halal certification.
2. Appointment Letter: An agreement from the company in the home country, granting authority to the applicant (the appointed company) to apply for foreign halal certificate registration.
3. Business License Number (NIB): The importer or official representative in Indonesia must provide their NIB (Business License Number).
4. Legalized Copy of Foreign Halal Certificate: A copy of the foreign halal certificate for the product being imported must be legalized by an authorized representative at the Indonesian embassy in the product’s country of origin. If the country is a member of the Apostille Convention, only the Apostille certificate is required.
5. List of Products: A detailed list of the goods to be imported into Indonesia, including the Harmonized System (HS) Code for each product.
6. Statement of Validity: A declaration that all the submitted documents are correct and authentic.

Process for Foreign Halal Certification in Indonesia

Registration

1. Create an Account on SIHALAL: The importer or official representative must first create an account on the SIHALAL platform.
2. Log In and Submit the Application: After creating an account, log in and select the “SHLN Registration” option. Enter the required data and upload the necessary documents.
3. Document Verification: The Indonesian Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) will verify the submitted documents for completeness and accuracy. If any documents are incomplete, the applicant must submit the missing documents within five working days. Failing to do so will result in automatic cancellation.

Payment and Final Steps

1. Invoice Issuance: Once the documents are verified, BPJPH will issue an invoice. The importer or official representative must complete the payment within seven working days. Failure to pay on time will also result in cancellation.
2. Verification of Payment and Receipt Issuance: After payment is verified, BPJPH will issue a Payment Receipt.
3. Issuance of Registration Number: BPJPH will draft the SHLN registration number document and send it for electronic signature approval. Once approved, the Foreign Halal Certificate Registration Number (SHLN) will be issued.

Conclusion

Obtaining halal certification for foreign products in Indonesia is a structured and straightforward process if you follow the guidelines and meet all the requirements. By using the SIHALAL system and adhering to BPJPH’s instructions, foreign companies can ensure their products are compliant and ready for the Indonesian market.

By ensuring that all documents are in order and submitted on time, your business can successfully secure halal certification, enabling access to one of the world’s largest halal markets.