MUSCAT : The FSQC has urged food importers to take action ahead of the deadline by coordinating with suppliers and halal certification bodies in countries of origin and verifying that the relevant certification body has been formally designated by the Centre.

The requirement applies to imported food products for which a halal certificate is required for entry into the Sultanate of Oman.

Under the new arrangement, halal certificates issued by certification bodies that are not designated by the FSQC will not be accepted from July 1, 2027. Importers are therefore responsible for checking the designation status of the certification body before entering into contracts or arranging shipments.

The FSQC also warned that it will not be responsible for any financial or contractual consequences resulting from importers dealing with halal certification bodies that have not been designated by the Centre.

Halal certification bodies seeking designation can submit applications or request information about the requirements and procedures by contacting the FSQC at designations@mafwr.gov.om.

For all the latest news from Oman and GCC, follow us on Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn, like us on Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube page, which is updated daily.