Sweden, Indonesia Sign Halal Certification Recognition Agreement to Boost Trade

Sweden, Indonesia Sign Halal Certification Recognition Agreement to Boost Trade
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Indonesia and Sweden have signed a mutual recognition agreement for halal certificates in a move aimed at facilitating bilateral trade and strengthening cooperation in the halal products sector.

The agreement was signed between Indonesia’s Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) and the Swedish Halal Certification body, allowing recognition of halal certificates issued by both sides under the laws and regulations of the two countries.

BPJPH Chairman Ahmad Haikal Hasan said the agreement would make halal trade more efficient and streamlined while maintaining quality standards and religious compliance. He added that the partnership supports Indonesia’s efforts to expand international cooperation in halal product assurance and develop related industries.

Hasan noted that halal standards are no longer limited to religious requirements but are increasingly linked to transparency, traceability, reliability, health and quality of life, making halal products more competitive in global markets.

Swedish Ambassador to Indonesia and several regional organisations Daniel Blockert said the agreement would strengthen economic relations between the two countries and contribute to the development of internationally aligned halal standards.

The Executive Director of the Swedish Halal Certification body, Aso Asinger, described the agreement as an important milestone, saying recognition by Indonesian authorities would create new opportunities for Swedish companies seeking access to the Indonesian market.

Under the agreement, the Swedish halal authority will issue certificates based on Indonesian standards, oversee verification processes and provide required data to Indonesia’s SIHALAL system, while Indonesia will officially recognise approved certificates issued by the Swedish body.