Indonesia has reinstated accreditation for the only US halal certifier authorized to supply beef to the country, reopening a market that had been shuttered for months.
The Indonesian Halal Authority (BPJPH) suspended the certifier in March over concerns about slaughter methods, effectively halting US beef shipments. Last year, the US sold $93 million worth of beef to Indonesia.
“BPJPH raised compliance questions about one halal certifier based in Omaha,” said Jihae Yang, vice president for Asia Pacific at the US Meat Export Federation.
“Because that body was the sole certifier approved for Indonesia, the suspension stopped exports altogether.”
The issue has now been resolved, paving the way for US beef to return to Southeast Asia’s largest economy. Industry leaders see room for growth, citing Indonesia’s rising middle class, expanding cold-chain infrastructure, and appetite for premium products.
“There’s huge opportunity in Indonesia,” said Greg Hanes, CEO of the Cattlemen’s Beef Board. “Consumers enjoy US beef, and with improving logistics and updated halal rules, the market potential is tremendous.”
While trade hurdles remain—particularly non-tariff barriers—Washington and Jakarta are signaling progress. A joint statement released in July outlined a framework for addressing long-standing roadblocks, hinting at smoother access ahead.
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