Indonesia’s Halal Certification Deadline: A Simple Guide

With Indonesia enforcing stricter halal laws, businesses must meet specific halal certification deadlines or risk legal penalties. Under Government Regulation No. 42 of 2024, products from food to cosmetics must be certified by set dates, starting in October 2024 for some sectors. 

Yet many businesses are still unaware or unprepared. This guide outlines the key deadlines, affected industries, and how to comply before it’s too late. 

Key Dates for Halal Certification in Indonesia 

The halal certification deadline is when businesses in Indonesia must have halal certification for their products. This rule applies to many sectors, especially food, drinks, cosmetics, and slaughter services. 

The deadlines are based on government laws, including the latest Government Regulation No. 42 of 2024. The rules are being applied in phases: 

• October 17, 2024: Deadline for medium and large businesses in food and related industries. 
• October 17, 2026: Deadline for small businesses and imported products like food and cosmetics. 

If businesses miss the halal certification deadline, they could face fines or be banned from selling their products. Acting early can help avoid problems and make the process smoother. 

Deadline by Product Category and Business Size 

Indonesia has set different halal certification deadlines depending on the type of product you sell and the size of your business. Here’s how the timelines break down: 

Food, Beverages, and Slaughter Services 

Deadline: October 17, 2024 

• Applies to medium and large businesses. 
• Covers food manufacturers, beverage producers, restaurants, caterers, and slaughterhouses. 
• Includes suppliers of raw materials used in food production. 

Micro and Small Enterprises (UMK) 

Deadline: October 17, 2026 

• Covers micro and small enterprises across the food and beverage sectors. 
• Extra time is provided to ease compliance. 
• Eligible businesses can apply for free halal certification through the government’s SEHATI program. 

Imported Food and Beverages 

Deadline: October 17, 2026 

• The deadline extension granted for imported products was originally set for 2024. 
• Importers must use halal certifiers recognized by BPJPH. 
• Applies to packaged foods, drinks, and slaughter-based products sold in Indonesia. 

Cosmetics and Personal Care Products 

Deadline: October 17, 2026 

• Includes skincare, makeup, and hygiene products with animal-derived or alcohol-based ingredients. 
• Both local and imported products must be certified. 
• Transition period ends in 2026, after which enforcement begins. 

Other Product Categories (Medicines, Clothing, etc.) 

Deadline: After 2026 

• Includes traditional medicines, OTC drugs, health supplements, and clothing with animal components (e.g., leather). 
• BPJPH is still finalizing the exact enforcement dates. 
• Businesses should monitor updates to prepare early. 

Understanding your category will help you meet the halal certification deadline and prevent disruptions to your operations.

READ MORE:

• Halal Indonesia: Certification, Regulation, and Market Insights for Businesses
• How to Get Halal Certification for Your Restaurant in Indonesia
• Investing Potential in Indonesia’s Halal Economy

What Happens After the Halal Certification Deadline? 

Once the halal certification deadline passes, the rules shift from optional to mandatory. Businesses that haven’t complied may face serious consequences. 

Legal Sanctions for Non-Compliance 

• Products that are not certified may be removed from the market. 
• Companies can receive written warnings, fines, or have their licenses suspended. 
• BPJPH and other authorities may conduct spot inspections to enforce compliance. 

Impact on Sales and Distribution 

• Retailers and distributors may refuse to carry non-certified products, especially in modern trade channels. 
• E-commerce platforms could delist products without halal labels after enforcement begins. 
• Public trust and brand reputation may be damaged if consumers discover a non-compliant product. 

While the regulation enforces compliance, early adopters can also benefit. Products that are halal certified gain consumer trust, broader market access, and fewer distribution restrictions, especially in Muslim-majority regions. In short, meeting the halal certification deadline is a strategic move for business growth in Indonesia and beyond.

How to Prepare Before the Deadline 

Businesses should begin preparations early to meet the halal certification deadline. The process involves more than just completing forms; it requires clear documentation and a solid understanding of halal standards. Here are some key steps to consider: 

• Check if your products are affected by the regulation, especially if you operate in food, beverages, or cosmetics. 
• Understand halal compliance, including how your products are made and what ingredients are used. 
• Start your application through official BPJPH channels and work with a recognized halal auditor. 
• Use available support, such as free certification programs for small businesses. 
• Leverage halal consultants or compliance experts to avoid mistakes and speed up the approval process, which is especially helpful for complex products or new businesses. 
• Stay informed about regulation updates that may affect your industry. 

Acting early helps reduce risks, avoid costly delays, and ensures you meet the halal certification deadline without last-minute pressure.

Avoid Costly Delays by Getting It Right with InCorp 

The halal certification deadline in Indonesia is fast approaching. Key enforcement dates are already in effect for some sectors, and more will follow by 2026. 

While you can manage the process yourself, it can be time-consuming and complex, especially if your product involves imported ingredients or multiple components. InCorp Indonesia (an Ascentium Company) can assist with your halal certification and make the process easier by: 

• Reviewing your product’s halal readiness 
• Handling the paperwork and submission 
• Coordinating audits with recognized agencies 
• Managing updates or changes post-certification 
• Assisting foreign brands with local requirements 

Complete the form below to meet the halal certification deadline and ensure compliance before it becomes a barrier to your business.

Frequently Asked Questions