The free halal certification program is an initiative of the Indonesian government, through the Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH), to assist micro and small enterprises (MSEs) in obtaining halal certification at no cost. In 2025, this program represents an excellent opportunity not to be missed, considering that the mandatory halal certification deadline of 2024 has already passed.
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What is the Free Halal Certification Program?
The free halal certification program (often referred to as self-declaration) is a halal certification registration pathway provided free of charge by the government for MSEs, with simplified requirements and procedures. This program not only saves costs but also saves time and effort for business owners.
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Who Can Participate in This Program?
This program is only applicable to MSEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises), with the following conditions:
- Products do not use haram ingredients or animal-derived ingredients
- Simple and consistent production process
- No changes in materials or leading suppliers
- Businesses must have a NIB (Business Identification Number)
- Receive assistance from an official Halal Product Processing Facilitator (PPPH)
Free Halal Certification Requirements
The following are the halal certification requirements for the free (self-declaration) pathway:
- Active NIB
- Business owner’s ID card
- List of products and raw materials
- Supplier name and origin
- Production process flow
- No use of haram ingredients
- Self-declaration letter confirming product halal status
✅ A halal certification facilitator will verify this document before being submitted to BPJPH.
Why is the Free Halal Certification Program Important?
In line with the Indonesian government’s mandatory halal certification policy of 2024, this program addresses the needs of MSEs who struggle to cover the costs of obtaining halal certification.
1. Strengthened Product Legality
By participating in the free halal certification program, your product is not only recognized as halal but also deemed legally valid in accordance with BPJPH policies.
2. Free, But Remains Professional
Although it’s free, you will still be assisted by an official halal certification expert to ensure the process meets the required standards.
3. Increased Consumer Trust
The halal label makes consumers more confident and loyal, especially those who pay attention to sharia aspects in their daily lives.
Examples of Products Eligible for the Free Halal Certification Program
- Home-packaged foods
- Herbal drinks
- Snacks & cookies
- Simple processed products (chips, spices, chili sauce, etc.)
Free Halal Certification Procedure: Steps
Here are the steps for halal certification through the 2024 free self-declaration program:
1. Register an Account on SIHALAL
Visit: https://sihalal.halal.go.id/
2. Select the Self-Declare Path
Fill in your business details and select the free pathway for MSMEs.
3. Upload Required Documents
According to the list above.
4. Mentoring by PPPH
The mentor will verify the data and conduct an on-site survey.
5. Validation by BPJPH
If approved, a halal certificate will be issued and valid for four years.
How Much Does Halal Certification Cost?
For the free pathway (self-declaration), the cost of halal certification is IDR 0.
However, for the regular halal certification category, the cost can range between:
| Scale of Business | Estimated costs |
| Regular Micro and Small Enterprises | IDR 300.000 – IDR 500.000 |
| Medium | IDR 2.000.000 – IDR 5.000.000 |
| Big | Until IDR 10.000.000+ |
💡 Therefore, take advantage of the free halal certification program while it’s still available, as space is limited.
Differences Between Free and Regular Halal Certification Programs
Regular halal certification requires a fee and undergoes an audit by LPPOM.
This free program is designed explicitly for MSEs and is self-declared, simpler, and offered at no charge.
Regular Halal Certification vs. Free Program: Which is Better?
Currently, a free halal certification program is available for MSEs through a self-declaration scheme. The process is free and audit-free, but it is only applicable to businesses with simple products—those containing no animal ingredients, no complex processes, and non-critical ingredients.
While it may seem practical, the free program has many limitations:
- Not suitable for medium- or large-scale businesses
- No audits, which can lower consumer confidence
- Validity period is only one year and needs to be extended
- Less robust for export or entry into modern retail
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Why Is Regular Halal Certification Still Superior?
- ✅ Widely accepted nationally and internationally
- ✅ Directly audited by LPPOM MUI, a trusted institution
- ✅ Suitable for all types of products, including complex ones
- ✅ Longer validity and support business expansion
- ✅ Professional guidance available until approval
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Conclusion
The free program is suitable for micro-businesses with simple products and services. However, for long-term growth and high credibility, regular halal certification remains the best option.
