Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia's Ministry of Industry has stated its commitment to support small and medium industries (SMIs), helping them comply with the mandatory halal certification policy which will take effect on October 18.
Head of Halal Industry Center at the ministry, Dewi Setiawati, said most large enterprises in the food and beverage sector had already obtained halal certification since 2024.
"However, smaller industries still need our assistance," she said in Jakarta on Tuesday.
She pointed out SMIs require financing support and guidance in using the government's Halal Product Assurance System to fully comply with the mandatory halal certification policy.
The official added the number of entities requiring assistance remains dynamic as the sector continues to grow.
Related news: Indonesia rules out delay in mandatory halal certification policy
Earlier, the Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) stressed the mandatory halal certification policy would take effect as scheduled.
"The mandatory halal policy will take effect on October 18 as planned. There will be no delays," the BPJPH Head Ahmad Haikal said in a statement on Saturday (Oct 10).
As part of the preparations, he added, the government is drafting provisions that would provide special arrangements for certain product categories, particularly those produced by micro and small enterprises and certain imported goods.
Haikal explained the approach is intended to ensure the policy is implemented in an orderly and proportionate manner while safeguarding business continuity.
Related news: Indonesia targets global Muslim tourists with halal tourism push
Haikal further stressed the mandatory halal certification requirement does not constitute an import restriction or impose undue burdens on businesses.
It reflects the government's responsibility to strengthen consumer protection while providing greater certainty for business operators, he said.
Head of National Consumer Protection Agency (BPKN) Mufti Mubarok voiced full support for the mandatory halal certification policy.
Even so, Mubarok underscored the importance of ensuring the policy would not create new difficulties for micro and small enterprises.
Also serving as deputy chair of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin), Mubarok raised concerns about street vendors with limited access to financing and information.
Related news: Indonesia bolsters global halal cooperation with four countries
Translator: A.M. Fauzan, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Fransiska Ninditya
Copyright © ANTARA 2026