Imported Cosmetics in Indonesia Now Require Halal Certification

Introduction

Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim-majority nation, is enforcing stricter halal regulations in line with its growing commitment to ensuring consumer protection and religious compliance. As of October 17, 2026, imported cosmetic and skincare products must obtain Halal Certification to be legally marketed in the country. This requirement stems from Government Regulation (PP) No. 42 of 2024, BPOM Regulation No. 33 of 2021, and Law No. 33 of 2014 concerning Halal Product Assurance. These frameworks mandate a phased implementation of halal certification obligations—including for cosmetic imports. This article provides comprehensive guidance on why Halal Certification is required for imported cosmetics, the certification timeline and process, the relationship with a valid Business License, and how CPT Corporate can assist your business in meeting Indonesia’s regulatory standards.

Halal Certification: A Legal Necessity in Indonesia

What Is Halal Certification?

Halal Certification verifies that a product complies with Islamic law (Shariah). For cosmetics, this ensures all ingredients and production methods are free from haram (forbidden) substances such as alcohol, animal derivatives from non-halal slaughter, or cross-contamination.

Legal Foundation

The following regulations form the legal basis for mandatory Halal Certification:

• Law No. 33 of 2014 on Halal Product Assurance
• PP No. 42 of 2024 on the Implementation of Halal Product Assurance
• BPOM Regulation No. 33 of 2021, which includes skincare and cosmetics in its halal-required category

According to Article 161 of PP 42/2024, cosmetic products—including imported skincare—must be halal-certified starting October 17, 2026.

Timeline for Enforcement

Transitional Period: 2021–2026

As stipulated by BPJPH and PP 42/2024, a five-year transition period started on October 17, 2021. During this time, businesses are encouraged to voluntarily apply for Halal Certification and prepare for full implementation.

Full Enforcement: October 17, 2026

Beginning October 17, 2026, Halal Certification becomes mandatory for imported cosmetics. Any products circulating in the Indonesian market without certification after this date may face:

• Written warnings
• Product recall or market withdrawal
• Administrative sanctions

This requirement applies to both local and foreign skincare or cosmetic brands.

Why Halal Certification Is Crucial for Importers

Legal Market Access

Without Halal Certification, foreign skincare brands will be unable to legally distribute their products in Indonesia after the 2026 deadline.

Consumer Trust

In a predominantly Muslim society, Halal Certification is associated with product quality, safety, and transparency. Halal-compliant brands gain more credibility and customer loyalty.

Regulatory Risk Mitigation

Meeting the certification requirements reduces the risk of penalties, product seizures, or reputational damage caused by non-compliance.

The Certification Process via SIHALAL Platform

Foreign cosmetic importers must undergo a structured certification process using BPJPH’s SIHALAL system:

1. Business License & NIB: Ensure your business is legally registered with a valid Business License and Nomor Induk Berusaha (NIB). 
2. Account Registration: Register on the SIHALAL platform using an active email and NIB. 
3. Document Upload: Submit details of ingredients, raw materials, production flow, and packaging. 
4. Verification: BPJPH conducts an initial check of application completeness. 
5. Audit & Inspection: The Halal Inspection Agency (LPH) carries out on-site or virtual audits. 
6. Fatwa Issuance: Based on audit results, MUI or other authorized religious body issues a halal ruling. 
7. Certificate Issuance: BPJPH issues the official Halal Certificate, which can be downloaded once marked "Terbit SH."

CPT Corporate Services for Compliance Support

As a trusted legal consultancy in Indonesia, CPT Corporate offers full-spectrum assistance to help foreign businesses meet Halal Certification and Business License obligations.

Business License Services

• Legal entity establishment ( PT PMA)
• Licensing coordination with OSS system
• Acquiring NIB and sectoral permits

Halal Certification Support

• SIHALAL account setup
• Document preparation and audit guidance
• Liaison with BPJPH and LPH
• End-to-end compliance project management

With CPT Corporate, businesses save time, reduce risk, and ensure a seamless entry into the Indonesian market.

Overcoming Compliance Challenges

Ingredient Verification

Foreign manufacturers often face delays due to incomplete ingredient documentation. CPT Corporate ensures full traceability and prepares your dossier for LPH review.

Overseas Facility Audits

Imported products from overseas factories must pass halal audits. CPT Corporate facilitates audit coordination and compliance alignment.

Regulatory Navigation

Ongoing regulatory updates require continuous monitoring. CPT Corporate stays updated with the latest rulings from BPJPH, BPOM, and MUI.

Conclusion

The Indonesian government’s halal roadmap mandates that all imported skincare and cosmetic products secure Halal Certification by October 17, 2026. Backed by PP 42/2024 and BPOM Regulation No. 33/2021, this regulation ensures product safety and religious compliance. To enter the Indonesian market successfully, foreign cosmetic brands must not only be aware of this requirement but act now to comply. Securing a valid Business License and preparing halal documentation early is key. Partnering with CPT Corporate provides the strategic support and legal expertise necessary to navigate the process efficiently and confidently.

Are you a foreign cosmetic brand planning to enter the Indonesian market? 

Don’t let regulatory hurdles slow you down. Contact CPT Corporate today to get started on your Halal Certification and Business License applications. With our expert guidance, you can focus on growth while we handle the compliance. Visit CPT Corporate or email us at inquiry@cptcorporate for a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. When does Halal Certification become mandatory for imported cosmetics?

October 17, 2026. This is the end of the transition period outlined in PP 42/2024 and the start of full enforcement.

2. Is the requirement applicable to skincare products?

Yes. Skincare is legally classified as a cosmetic product under BPOM Regulation No. 33 of 2021, making it subject to halal rules.

3. What platform is used to apply for Halal Certification?

The certification process is conducted via the SIHALAL system managed by BPJPH.

4. What happens if I don’t have Halal Certification by 2026?

Your products may be banned from circulation, and your business could face administrative sanctions.

5. What is the first step in applying for Halal Certification?

Ensure your company has a valid Business License and NIB, then register an account on the SIHALAL platform.