Assalaamu alaikum,

In 2025, the United States is undergoing significant regulatory changes, many of which have global implications. One of the most closely watched developments is the revision of trade tariffs on imported goods.

President Donald Trump has introduced substantial adjustments to these tariffs, particularly in terms of the percentage rates applied to imports. This has sparked international attention, with many countries initiating discussions with the U.S. to negotiate mutually beneficial tariff arrangements.

However, the conversation goes beyond just numbers. The heightened public interest has led many to seek a deeper understanding of how tariffs are determined. One key source of insight is the Foreign Trade Barriers Report, published annually by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR). This report is publicly accessible through the official USTR website and outlines the various factors considered by the U.S. in setting trade policies—including those related to Halal products and their certification.

For over a decade, Halal products and certification have been a recurring topic in the USTR’s reports. Initially, the focus was limited to a few countries such as Kuwait, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Qatar. But over time, the scope has expanded significantly, as reflected in the 2025 report.

This growing attention from the U.S. government underscores the increasing relevance of the global Halal market. It’s no longer limited to food and beverages—it now includes pharmaceuticals and other sectors. Ultimately, all products aiming to enter this market must meet its specific requirements, including Halal compliance.

At IFANCA, we are committed to supporting U.S. industries in gaining access to global markets, particularly the Halal segment. As a U.S.-based Halal certification body serving over 5,000 domestic and international manufacturing plants, we continuously adapt to the evolving regulatory landscape. Our goal is to ensure that Halal certificates issued by IFANCA are recognized and accepted worldwide.

We believe that the challenges posed by Halal certification as a potential trade barrier can be overcome through strong collaboration between certification bodies, government agencies, and industry stakeholders. IFANCA remains steadfast in its commitment to playing an active role in the dynamic global Halal market.

Sincerely,

 

Muhammad Munir Chaudry, PhD

President