Purpose
This procedure sets out how HCC decides whether to grant Halal certification once an application has been assessed. It governs the decision step itself — separate from the assessment work — so that certificates are awarded consistently, on evidence, and by people independent of the assessment.
Scope
This procedure applies to the grant of certification across all HCC schemes — food, beverages, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and Halal-relevant services.
Overview of certification granting process
Once assessment is complete, the audit and review findings are compiled into a certification file. That file — not the relationship with the applicant — is the basis for the decision. The decision-maker confirms that every in-scope element conforms and that all non-conformities have been closed before certification is granted.
Eligibility for grant of Halal certification
An applicant is eligible for a grant only when it has demonstrated Halal conformity for the requested scope, closed all non-conformities with verified corrective action, and accepted the obligations of certification, including surveillance.
Certification decision process
The certification decision is taken by personnel who did not carry out the assessment, to preserve impartiality. Questions of Halal permissibility are referred to the Shariah Board, whose ruling is binding on the decision. The decision may be to approve, to defer pending further information or corrective action, or to refuse.
Basis for granting certification
Certification is granted on objective evidence that the product or operation conforms to the applicable Halal requirements. No commercial consideration, fee, or relationship influences the decision, consistent with the Impartiality and Conflict of Interest policies.
Issuance of Halal certificate
On a decision to approve, HCC issues a certificate stating the certified scope and its validity period, and publishes the certificate, its scope, and its status to the public verification service so that anyone can confirm it.
Conditions for refusal of certification
HCC refuses certification where the product or operation does not meet the Halal requirements for the requested scope, where non-conformities are not closed, where required information or access is withheld, or where granting a certificate would compromise impartiality or integrity. Reasons for refusal are given in writing.
Validity, surveillance & renewal
A certificate is valid for the period stated on it, subject to an annual surveillance audit during the certification cycle and to renewal at the end of the cycle, as set out in the Surveillance, Renewal & Continuity of Certification Policy.
Confidentiality & impartiality
All information in the certification file is handled under the Confidentiality, Data Protection & Privacy Policy, and the decision is taken impartially under the Impartiality & Non-Discrimination Policy.
Communication to applicants
HCC communicates the outcome — approve, defer, or refuse — to the applicant in writing, with the reasons and, where relevant, the steps needed to progress. An applicant who disagrees with a decision may use the Appeals, Complaints & Dispute Resolution Policy.
Questions about this policy?
Our team can clarify any point or direct your question to the right people at HCC.