Saudi Arabia Makes Halal Certification Mandatory for More Food and Beverage Imports

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has proposed extending mandatory halal certification to a wider range of imported food and beverages. The move builds on earlier Saudi halal reforms and points toward a more unified halal framework across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

What Changed in Saudi Halal Rules

Until now, mandatory halal certification for imports has applied mainly to meat and meat-based products. The SFDA proposal extends the requirement to additional food categories. The SFDA has also moved to centralise the approval of foreign halal certification bodies.

Because the rules were still at proposal stage when this article was written, exporters should confirm the final text and effective dates with the SFDA before shipping.

Which Products Are Affected

• Confectionery: biscuits, cakes, candy, chocolate and jelly
• Chilled and frozen foods: pasta, pizza, noodles and other frozen ready meals
• Long shelf-life products: baby food, canned food, soft drinks, sauces and nutritional supplements
• Dairy and fats: milk, dairy products, oils and fats

Compare this list with the final SFDA scope before planning shipments, because product definitions in the final text may differ from the proposal.

What Exporters Should Do

• Check each product category against the final SFDA scope.
• Confirm that your halal certification body is recognised for Saudi imports.
• Keep certificates current and matched to the correct product, plant and batch records.
• Build certification lead time into production and shipping schedules.

Outlook for GCC, Europe and Turkey

Gulf (GCC): A common halal framework across the GCC can make it easier to serve several Gulf markets from one set of certified production records, although each country applies its own import rules.

Europe: Halal-certified products appeal to Muslim consumers across European markets, and certification builds trust with retailers and food-service buyers.

Turkey: Turkey is both a major food producer and an export hub. Turkish manufacturers already work with halal certification routinely, which helps exporters targeting Middle Eastern and European buyers.

Working With an Experienced Manufacturer

Al Hariri Group is among the leading manufacturers in its sector. Working with an experienced manufacturer helps exporters prepare the production records and documents that certification bodies and importers ask for, so the focus can stay on market growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the new requirement apply to all food imports into Saudi Arabia?

No. It applies to the product categories named in the rules. Check the exact scope in the final SFDA text before planning shipments.

Do all GCC countries require the same halal certificate?

The GCC shares a common halal framework, but each member state enforces its own import requirements. Confirm the rules for every destination before shipping.

How early should exporters start the certification process?

Start early. Audits, document review and certificate issuance take time, so allow enough lead time before production runs and export dates.