GENERAL INFORMATION
On August 8, 2023, the Government of Egypt (GOE) filed a sixth addendum to the WTO’s TBT Committee (i.e., G/TBT/N/EGY/313/Add.6) extending the requirement for halal certification for imported milk and dairy products until December 31, 2023. This deadline has been extended several
times already.
On August 8, 2023, the Government of Egypt (GOE) filed a sixth addendum to the WTO’s TBT Committee (i.e., G/TBT/N/EGY/313/Add.6) extending the requirement for halal certification for imported milk and dairy products until December 31, 2023. This deadline has been extended several
times already.
This WTO notification comes after the August 6, 2023, publication of Egyptian standard ES: 429/2023General Requirements on Halal Food According to Islamic Sharia (available for purchase online). The standard covers the general requirements during all stages of the production process of halal food, in accordance with Islamic Shariya. The standard notably does not include milk and dairy products. This WTO notification, however, implies that the GOE is still considering certifying dairy products as halal regardless of the scope of the standard.
FAS/Cairo encourages U.S. suppliers and shippers to remain in close contact with their Egyptian importers for the latest updates on halal certificate requirements.