As the 2026 mandatory halal implementation approaches, LPPOM emphasizes the importance of raw material traceability for the cosmetics, traditional medicine, and supplement industries. Beyond finished products, transparency across the supply chain including supporting materials has become essential to maintaining halal integrity while enhancing market trust and competitiveness.
Attention toward the upcoming mandatory halal certification policy by the Halal Product Assurance Organizing Agency (BPJPH), which will take effect in October 2026, continues to grow particularly among businesses in the cosmetics, traditional medicine, and health supplement sectors. The focus is no longer limited to finished products; raw materials and their management systems are now under the spotlight. In this context, traceability has become a critical factor in ensuring compliance with halal standards while strengthening product competitiveness in the market.
This issue was highlighted during the National Webinar titled “Mandatory Halal Certification for Raw Materials in Cosmetics, Traditional Medicines & Supplements 2026”, organized by the Halal Inspection Body (LPH) LPPOM. One of the speakers, Dr. Ir. Muslich, M.Si., Commercial & Partnership Director of LPPOM, stressed the importance of business readiness in understanding technical aspects that often-become challenges in practice—particularly traceability.
In practice, the biggest challenge in halal audits does not lie in the final product, but rather in supporting or additive materials. Many businesses have ensured that their main ingredients are halal, yet often overlook other components such as solvents, capsules, emulsifiers, or minor additives.
“In the cosmetics, traditional medicine, and health supplement industries, the biggest challenge in halal audits is not the main raw materials or final products, but the additives and processing aids. Companies often claim their primary ingredients are halal, but fail to verify solvents, capsules, emulsifiers, or other minor additives. In LPPOM’s audit principles, even a single material with unclear origin can compromise the halal status of the entire product,” he explained.
He further emphasized that LPPOM’s approach to halal product inspection is both scientific and transparent. Halal certification is not merely a label, but the result of a comprehensive verification process covering the entire supply chain.
“During the halal inspection process, we verify the supply chain. Businesses must understand that halal certification is a Halal Product Assurance System (SJPH). This means halal integrity must be maintained from upstream starting from when raw materials enter the warehouse, throughout the production process, until the product is packaged and distributed,” he stated.
In preparing for the 2026 mandatory halal requirement, several technical aspects require immediate attention from businesses. First, a comprehensive mapping of the supply chain is essential. Internal audits should be conducted to ensure that all material suppliers already possess halal certification. If not, this becomes a risk indicator that must be addressed promptly.
Second, the completeness and accuracy of supporting documents are critical. Documents such as Halal Certificates, Certificates of Analysis (CoA), MSDS, and production flowcharts must be available and verifiable. Third, human resource competency in understanding and implementing the Halal Product Assurance System (SJPH) is equally important. The responsibility for maintaining halal integrity does not rest solely on the quality control team but involves all operational levels within the company.
During the session, Muslich also encouraged businesses to shift their perspective on halal certification. He stressed that the certification process should not be seen as a burden, but as an opportunity to enhance product quality and integrity.
“Do not view the audit process as a ‘threat’ or burden. Instead, see it as a process to strengthen your product’s integrity. At LPPOM, we are ready to provide technical assistance to ensure your certification process runs efficiently. Companies that can demonstrate strong raw material traceability will have significantly higher competitive value in the global market compared to those that still neglect supply chain transparency,” he asserted.
In closing, he reminded businesses of the importance of early preparation. The time leading up to the 2026 implementation should be utilized optimally for evaluation and internal improvements, particularly in raw material management and supply chain systems.
“My advice to business players: do not delay. Use the time leading up to 2026 to remap your entire raw material supply chain. The sooner you conduct a self-assessment, the more prepared you will be to face the October 2026 requirement smoothly and without technical obstacles,” he concluded.
Through a comprehensive understanding of material traceability and consistent implementation of the Halal Product Assurance System (SJPH), businesses will not only be able to comply with regulations. More importantly, this effort will play a key role in strengthening consumer trust and unlocking broader opportunities in the global market. (YN)
