Bosnia’s Halal Certification: From First Issuance 19 Years Ago to Hundreds of Producers Today

Nineteen years after issuing its first halal certificates, Bosnia and Herzegovina today has a thriving halal certification system that spans hundreds of producers across the food, hospitality, tourism, and pharmaceutical sectors.

The Agency for Halal Quality Certification (AHQC), established in 2006 within the Islamic Community of Bosnia and Herzegovina, has grown into a modern, accredited, and internationally recognized certification body.

“What began as a pioneering initiative in 2005 has since become a regional leader in halal standardization and certification,” said Dr. Damir Alihodžić, the Agency’s Director. “Our mission remains clear: to develop, promote, and safeguard halal values for the benefit of producers, consumers, and society as a whole.”

The Agency has introduced the Bosnian-Herzegovinian halal standard BAS 1049:2007, registered a halal quality trademark, and secured international recognition, including from the United Arab Emirates. Its activities now extend far beyond certification, including training programs, digital tools, research, and international events such as the Sarajevo Halal Fair and European Halal Congress.

Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Halal Certification System: 19 Years of Growth and Global Integration

Since its establishment in 2006, the Halal Quality Certification Agency in Bosnia and Herzegovina has evolved into a key driver of industry competitiveness, food safety, and market expansion. On September 22, the Agency marked the 19th anniversary of issuing the country’s first halal certificates.

Over nearly two decades, the Agency has developed the national halal standard BAS 1049:2007, registered a halal quality trademark, and positioned Bosnia and Herzegovina as a regional leader in halal certification. A milestone was reached in 2010, when the UAE officially recognized BiH halal certificates, enabling domestic producers to export to one of the world’s largest halal markets.

Beyond certification, the Agency now provides training, conducts market research, and develops digital tools such as the Halal Barcode Scanner app and Halal Bazar. It has also enhanced Bosnia’s international profile by organizing events including the Sarajevo Halal Fair, Sarajevo Halal Expo, and the European Halal Congress.

Today, the halal certification system in Bosnia and Herzegovina includes hundreds of certified producers in the food, hospitality, tourism, and pharmaceutical industries.

“Our long-term goal remains the same,” noted Director Dr. Damir Alihodžić. “To advance, promote, and protect halal values in a way that strengthens producers, benefits consumers, and supports society at large.”