Implementation of mutual recognition agreement on halal certification between halal product assurance organizing body (BPJPH) and Korean Muslim Federation (KMF) in 2023

The implementation of the Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) for Halal Certification between the Halal Product Assurance Organizing Body (BPJPH) and the Korea Muslim Federation (KMF) in 2023 has had a positive impact, reducing administrative barriers and increasing the efficiency of the halal certification recognition process also to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the halal industry sector and facilitate halal product trade between Indonesia and South Korea. This study aims to analyze the implementation of the Indonesia–Korea Halal Certification MRA using Sebastian Paulo’s implementation framework, which consists of four stages: problem definition and agenda-setting, negotiation and decision-making, implementation, and compliance monitoring/generation and evaluation. While all four stages are used to explain the overall implementation process, the analysis focuses primarily on the implementation stage through three indicators: availability of resources, coordination among actors, and institutional capacity. The results of the study show that the implementation of the MRA is supported by the availability of sufficient resources, including the regulatory framework, the halal certification system, the foreign halal registration mechanism, human resources, and the technological and administrative support provided by BPJPH and KMF. In terms of coordination among actors, the MRA’s implementation involves intensive collaboration between BPJPH, KMF, halal certification bodies, business operators, importers, exporters, and relevant government agencies in the process of recognition and registration of halal certificates. Meanwhile, the institutional capacity of BPJPH and KMF is reflected in the ability of the two institutions to carry out certification, monitoring, verification, and adjustments to the applicable halal standards.