The Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology (Esma) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Indonesia’s National Standardisation Agency (BSN) and National Accreditation Committee (KAN) to officially recognise halal certificates issued by KAN, said a report.

Esma director-general Abdulla Abdul Qader Al Maeeni told Salaam Gateway, a joint effort between Dubai Islamic Economy Development Centre and Thomson Reuters, the cooperation will harmonise the standard for halal in the two countries and help increase bilateral trade between UAE and Indonesia, reported state news agency Wam.

Al Maeeni added that cooperation between the two countries would increase the volume of bilateral trade, especially as the official data indicate that the volume of trade exchange between the UAE and Indonesia is about $3.7 billion and target the increase of $5.5, it said.

BSN chairman Bambang Prasetya told Salaam Gateway he is optimistic Esma’s recognition will boost Indonesia’s exports to the UAE, especially food and beverages.

He added that they have about 13 F&B companies that possess an already existing market in the UAE, which ranges from instant noodles, biscuits, processed meat products, candy, jelly, cake, as well as flavours and sweeteners.

Under the MoU, Esma will recognise halal certificates issued by KAN and products certified by certification bodies accredited KAN, based on UAE halal requirements set by ESMA.

The parties agree that KAN will comply with the relevant clauses of UAE.S 2055-3: Halal Accreditation Bodies, added the report.