Indonesia, Australia strengthen trade through Halal Product Assurance cooperation

Indonesia and Australia have formalized a strategic partnership to bolster trade through enhanced cooperation on Halal Product Assurance. The Badan Penyelenggara Jaminan Produk Halal (BPJPH) of Indonesia and the Australian Embassy in Indonesia officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at facilitating and increasing the export-import of halal-certified products between the two nations.

Head of BPJPH, Ahmad Haikal Hasan, described the MoU signing as a significant milestone in strengthening the strategic partnership in the halal product sector. He believes the collaboration will not only streamline trade but also harmonize halal systems, boost confidence among businesses and consumers, and foster a more integrated and competitive global halal ecosystem. "This MoU is an important step in strengthening halal cooperation between Indonesia and Australia," Hasan stated, emphasizing the role of technical dialogue, capacity building, and information exchange.

The agreement outlines a framework for cooperation between BPJPH and Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). Key areas include consultations, information exchange, technical cooperation, recognition of Australian Foreign Halal Institutions according to BPJPH regulations, and facilitating trade in halal products. Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade of Australia, Matt Thistlethwaite, highlighted Indonesia as a key strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly for Australian food and agricultural products.

Thistlethwaite noted that the MoU will provide greater certainty for businesses in both countries, strengthen trade relations, and open broader market access for halal-certified products. The partnership also encompasses technological development, human resource enhancement, research, infrastructure development, and regular communication. This cooperation agreement is set to last for five years from the date of signing and is eligible for renewal based on mutual agreement.