The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) of Korea has initiated a policy to support domestic food companies in entering Middle Eastern and Islamic markets. This policy involves seeking official recognition of the Korea Agency of HACCP Accreditation and Services as a halal certification body by Saudi Arabia. Halal certification verifies that products such as food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals are produced in accordance with Islamic law. The move is part of broader efforts to enhance the export competitiveness of K-Food by addressing regulatory barriers. The policy aligns with the 2023 memorandum of understanding (MOU) on food and drug safety cooperation between Korea and Saudi Arabia.
The policy primarily impacts Korean food manufacturers aiming to export to Saudi Arabia and other Islamic countries. Currently, these companies must obtain halal certification from foreign agencies, which increases both time and costs. If the Korean agency is recognized, domestic companies will be able to obtain halal certification directly in Korea. This change is expected to streamline the export process and reduce financial burdens. The initiative also lays the groundwork for expanding recognition to other Islamic markets such as the UAE, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
On June 11, 2024, a working-level meeting was held in Saudi Arabia between the MFDS, the Korea Agency of HACCP Accreditation and Services, and the Saudi Food and Drug Authority. The discussions focused on detailed requirements for halal certification body recognition, including assessment procedures, on-site inspections, and post-recognition management. Both sides agreed on the necessity of swift procedural cooperation and shared directions for collaboration. Plans are underway to amend the 2023 MOU to include specific provisions on halal certification cooperation. The recognition process is expected to accelerate, with further expansion to other countries anticipated.
Frequently asked questions include: What is halal certification? It is a religious certification confirming that products are produced in accordance with Islamic law. Why is this policy significant for Korean exporters? It allows them to obtain necessary certification domestically, reducing time and costs. What are the next steps? Both countries will continue procedural cooperation and work towards amending the bilateral MOU to formalize halal certification collaboration.
Metaqsol opinion: The collaboration between Korea and Saudi Arabia to recognize a Korean halal certification body is a significant policy move. It directly addresses the time and cost barriers faced by Korean food exporters targeting Islamic markets. The procedural cooperation and planned MOU amendments reflect a practical approach to regulatory harmonization. This initiative is expected to strengthen the export competitiveness of K-Food and could serve as a model for expanding market access to other Islamic countries.