THE ROLE OF MUI FATWAS IN PROMOTING INDONESIA’S HALAL INDUSTRY EXPORTS WITHIN THE ASEAN REGION

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the role of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) fatwas in promoting Indonesia’s halal industry exports within the ASEAN region. The study highlights how fatwas function not only as normative religious instruments but also as strategic tools that strengthen the competitiveness and legitimacy of Indonesian halal products in regional markets.This research employs a qualitative library research approach by examining regulatory documents, MUI fatwas, academic literature, and policy reports related to Indonesia’s halal certification system and ASEAN economic integration. The data were analyzed through content analysis to map the interrelation between religious authority, economic policy, and trade diplomacy.The findings reveal that MUI fatwas play a dual role — as religious legitimations of halal standards and as reinforcements of Indonesia’s halal export ecosystem. The fatwa-based certification system enhances consumer trust, facilitates mutual recognition among ASEAN countries, and strengthens Indonesia’s position as a global halal industry hub.This study recommends that policymakers and halal industry actors optimize fatwa-based diplomacy in harmonizing ASEAN halal standards and expanding Indonesia’s export markets. The article contributes a new perspective by linking Islamic legal instruments (fatwas) with economic diplomacy and regional trade integration, thereby offering a model of Islamic values–based economic development in ASEAN.