Transformation of Halal Certification in Indonesia from Islamic Law Perspective

Abstract

The halal industry has become a major trend, with a peak in certified halal products in 2023 driven by global and local demand. The majority of Indonesia’s population (87%) being Muslim creates significant opportunities for the halal sector. SMEs are considered the main force behind the growth of the halal industry in Indonesia. The Indonesian government has responded enthusiastically with the Mandatory Halal Policy implemented in October 2024. This has also influenced increasingly complex regulations. This study focuses on the differences in halal certification in Indonesia following the enactment of Law No. 6 of 2023 and the Islamic legal analysis related to the halal certification mechanism post-enactment of this law. This qualitative study uses normative legal research methods and a historical approach analyzed based on the Maqāṣid Asy-Syari‘ah theoretical framework. The results show that the transformation of halal certification regulations in Law No. 6 of 2023 introduces significant changes such as the reduction of certification process time, the permanence of halal certificate validity, electronic system integration, and ease of funding for halal certification applications. Public participation in this certification program has also increased. The mandatory halal certification in this law aligns with Islamic law and Maqāṣid Asy-Syari‘ah. Additionally, the authority of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) in issuing halal fatwas is considered appropriate as it follows principles relevant to the situation and conditions, facilitates business actors, and is in accordance with Islamic law.