A two-day Foundation Training Program on the OIC/SMIIC 34:2020 standard titled "Conformity Assessment – General Requirements for Bodies Operating Certification of Persons Involved in the Halal Related Activities" was successfully held virtually by SMIIC on April 08–09, 2025. As part of the SMIIC Training Program for the private Sector, the event brought together key professionals, stakeholders, and certification bodies engaged in Halal-related activities to enhance their understanding of the requirements of OIC/SMIIC 34.

Organized by SMIIC, the training aimed to build competency among participants in implementing the internationally recognized OIC/SMIIC 34:2020 standard. This standard, developed by the Standards and Metrology Institute for Islamic Countries (SMIIC), outlines the general requirements for bodies certifying individuals working in Halal sectors — this includes from food and cosmetics to pharmaceuticals and logistics.

Over the course of the training, attendees were introduced to the principles of Islamic work ethics, risk-based approach, impartiality, competence, and consistent operation in the certification process. The sessions included detailed discussions on criteria for assessing personal certification bodies, ethical guidelines, and the importance of maintaining conformity with Halal-specific requirements. Practical case studies and interactive activities helped reinforce theoretical concepts with real-world applications.

Participants included representatives from Halal certification bodies, regulatory agencies, training organizations, and industry professionals. The event concluded with an questions and answer session to address participant questions and an exam.

The training program marks a continued commitment to strengthening the Halal ecosystem through structured, internationally benchmarked conformity assessment procedures.

For more information on upcoming training sessions or to access training materials, please contact https://smiic.org/en/trainings.