Thailand Issues Warning on New Indonesian Halal Regulations

According to a report by Prachachat Business, the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) has issued an urgent advisory to Thai exporters regarding new Halal regulations in Indonesia. Starting October 18, 2026, Indonesia’s Halal Product Assurance Organizing Agency (BPJPH) will enforce three new regulations covering a wide range of goods, including food, beverages, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements, chemicals, raw materials, and food additives.

These new rules introduce specific requirements for labeling, including provisions for 'non-halal' labeling, and establish clear penalties for non-compliance. The DITP is currently working to expedite the renewal of the Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) to help mitigate potential trade barriers for Thai businesses.

For residents and travelers, this development is primarily a trade-related matter. However, it highlights a significant shift in the regulatory landscape for consumer goods entering the Indonesian market. While the immediate impact is focused on commercial exporters, those involved in the import or distribution of these product categories should monitor the situation closely. It remains to be confirmed how strictly these enforcement measures will be applied at the border and whether the MRA negotiations will successfully alleviate the compliance burden for Thai manufacturers before the October deadline.