What is SMIIC and why does it matter for halal standards?

Answer

SMIIC is the Standards and Metrology Institute for Islamic Countries, established under the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Because a common, harmonised language has not yet been built between countries in halal certification, differing standards and certification systems can turn into technical barriers to international trade. The Halal Accreditation Agency regards the wider adoption of the OIC/SMIIC standards, prepared with contributions from OIC member states, and the creation of a harmonised accreditation system as key to reducing those barriers. The Agency's own accreditation processes are also conducted on the basis of these standards.