Indonesia and Japan are increasing their cooperation in the halal product sector through two important meetings in Tokyo at the end of September 2024. These meetings represent a strategic move to enhance halal certification guarantees and develop a halal ecosystem in Japan.
BPJPH and MAFF Meeting: Enhancing Halal Certification
On September 27, 2024, the Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) of Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs met with Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF). BPJPH Head Muhammad Aqil Irham and Ken Sasaji, Deputy Director-General of the Export and International Affairs Bureau, discussed how to strengthen cooperation on halal product assurance.
Furthermore, Aqil highlighted the need for collaboration to improve recognition of halal certification, particularly for foreign products entering Indonesia. Currently, five Foreign Halal Institutions (LHLN) in Japan have applied for cooperation with BPJPH, with some already signing a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA). Aqil urged the need to expedite the MRA process, allowing Japanese products easier entry into Indonesia with recognized halal certification. This certification is not only expected to boost trade but also to raise halal standards in both countries.
Launch of HITO: A New Era for Halal Certification in Japan
On September 29, 2024, Indonesia’s Minister of Religious Affairs, Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, launched the Halal International Trust Organization (HITO) in Japan. HITO is the first halal certification body based on the Indonesian Muslim community in Japan. It aims to meet the halal needs of the local Muslim population and visiting tourists. The organization will improve access to halal services and raise the quality of certification, supporting the growth of the halal industry in both countries.
Growing Demand for Halal Products in Japan
Indonesian Ambassador to Japan, Heri Akhmadi, emphasized the importance of HITO in supporting Japan’s growing halal market. By 2024, Japan’s demand for halal products is projected to exceed USD 68 million. This growth reflects the increasing interest in halal products among Japanese consumers. Sholahudin Al Ayub, Executive Director of the National Committee for Sharia Economy and Finance (KNEKS), noted that HITO will further strengthen the halal ecosystem in Japan. Moreover, it will enhance trade relations and contribute to the global halal economy.
Sources:
https://bpjph.halal.go.id/detail/indonesia-jepang-bahas-penguatan-kerja-sama-jaminan-produk-halal
https://bpjph.halal.go.id/detail/menag-luncurkan-halal-international-trust-organization-di-jepang
