Perception of MSME Actors Regarding Halal Certification Obligations in Pekalongan

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the perceptions of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Pekalongan towards the obligation of halal certification. Halal certification is an obligation for producers to guarantee the halalness of products consumed by the public, but its implementation among MSMEs often faces various challenges. This study uses a qualitative approach with an in-depth interview method with 25 MSMEs in Pekalongan. The results of the study show that the majority of MSMEs understand the importance of halal certification in influencing a person's purchasing decision. However, they face obstacles such as high costs, complicated processes, and lack of socialization and support from the government. In addition, there are also MSMEs who think that halal certification is not too urgent for their business, because there are no sanctions or penalties for those who do not carry out halal certification. This study recommends the need to increase socialization and support, as well as simplify the halal certification process to make it easier for MSMEs to fulfill these obligations.