The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) of Korea announced the deployment of a public-private support team to Indonesia from July 20 to 22. This initiative involved collaboration with the Indonesian Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) and the National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM) to alleviate export burdens for Korean firms, achieving notable improvements in halal certification procedures.
The deployment of the public-private support team aims to address challenges faced by Korean cosmetics companies operational in Indonesia, particularly in light of mandatory halal labeling set to take effect on October 18. Among the key discussions was the recognition of the difficulties for non-Muslim countries to employ Muslim halal supervisors within halal certification agencies. Consequently, an agreement was reached to allow individuals who have completed recognized training to qualify for positions in these agencies.
Additionally, it was agreed that cosmetic manufacturers already certified for halal compliance would be exempt from on-site inspections for new applicants, provided that they maintain consistent regulatory standards. This decision will come into effect via official correspondence before the revision of regulations.
BPOM is expected to amend relevant regulations to extend the grace period for products that are lawfully imported and currently in distribution ahead of the October 18 implementation of mandatory halal labeling. BPOM pledged to work with BPJPH to facilitate this process.
The agencies also outlined the procedures and allowances for carrying up to 20 samples for market research and other non-commercial purposes to ensure smooth customs processes for Korean businesses entering the market.
To promote ongoing regulatory cooperation, both agencies agreed to operate a hotline and establish a working group. They plan to widen the scope of their collaboration to include processes for listing reference countries for pharmaceuticals.
Seo Kyung-bae, President of the Korea Cosmetic Association, expressed welcome sentiments regarding the participation of the association in the public-private support team. The government's proactivity in addressing customs and regulatory issues is seen as a tangible benefit for companies seeking to penetrate the Indonesian market.
The MFDS stated that the negotiations strengthened the halal certification process and eased burdens associated with labeling obligations, while also clarifying regulatory updates for products already on the market. Moreover, the ministry affirmed its commitment to enhancing cooperation with overseas regulatory authorities to actively support the global expansion of K-Beauty.
