Purpose
Certification decisions must be earned by conformity, never bought or traded. This policy explains how HCC manages conflicts of interest and prohibits bribery, so that no decision can be improperly influenced.
Scope
This policy applies to all HCC personnel, auditors, technical reviewers, Shariah Board members, contractors, and representatives, and to every certification activity HCC undertakes.
Identifying conflicts of interest
A conflict of interest arises where a personal, financial, or other relationship could improperly influence — or appear to influence — a person's judgement in an HCC activity.
Covered persons must declare any interest that could create such a conflict, including financial holdings in a client, family or close relationships with client personnel, and any prior consultancy or advisory work for the operator being assessed.
Managing conflicts
Declared conflicts are assessed and managed. The usual remedy is to remove the conflicted person from the assessment or decision; where a conflict cannot be managed to an acceptable level, HCC will decline or withdraw from the activity.
No individual assesses, reviews, or decides a matter in which they hold an interest. Assignments are arranged so that independence is preserved, consistent with the Impartiality Policy.
Anti-bribery and improper inducement
HCC prohibits bribery in every form. No one acting for HCC may offer, give, solicit, or accept any payment, gift, favour, or advantage intended to influence a certification decision or to secure an improper benefit.
Hospitality and gifts of token value, consistent with normal professional courtesy, must never be linked to a pending or possible decision, and where there is any doubt they are declined or declared. Facilitation payments are not permitted.
Any attempt by a client or third party to induce a favourable outcome is reported to HCC management and may result in refusal or withdrawal of certification.
Reporting and consequences
Suspected conflicts or bribery must be reported promptly to HCC management. Reports made in good faith are protected from retaliation.
Breaches are investigated and may result in corrective action up to termination of employment or engagement, withdrawal of affected certificates, and referral to the appropriate authorities where the law requires.
Implementation, review & contact
Covered persons acknowledge this policy on engagement and renew declarations of interest periodically. The policy is reviewed at least annually.
Declarations, reports, and questions about this policy may be sent to HCC at info@halalcc.org.
Questions about this policy?
Our team can clarify any point or direct your question to the right people at HCC.