The Russian quality system, RusQuality, is stepping up efforts to boost the international recognition of its halal certification, as it celebrates its 10th anniversary, said its head Maxim Protasov on Sunday.
Speaking to Anadolu on the sidelines of KazanForum 2025 in Tatarstan's capital, Protasov noted that while halal-certified products are in great interest abroad—particularly in the Middle East and Türkiye—RusQuality is actively working to ensure the recognition of Russian halal certificates.
According to Protasov, RusQuality's halal certification body, which was established in line with a Russian government decree and accredited by Rosaccreditation, has already achieved recognition for its certificates in countries such as the Gulf states, Pakistan, Algeria, and several CIS countries.
Products and services prepared in accordance with Muslim guidelines are called halal. The global halal market is experiencing significant growth.
Protasov acknowledged that Russian exporters currently face challenges as they must undergo separate certification procedures in each target market, which requires considerable time and effort. "Recognition of certificates makes the process much easier, eliminating the need for re-certification in the importing country," he said.
The global halal market continues to expand, with growing demand not only for food and beverages but also for services. In response, RusQuality is broadening its scope beyond food products to include areas like halal tourism.
"We developed Muslim Friendly Standard for tourist accommodations. Hotels that meet the requirements are totally friendly for the Muslim population � both in and across the country," Protasov explained.
Founded in 2015, RusQuality promotes business excellence, standardization, and consumer trust through certification and quality benchmarks. It operates over a dozen Competence Centers, including those focused on halal, organic, vegan, and functional foods.
The organization, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary, also awards the Russian Quality Mark, a label reintroduced by Russian President Vladimir Putin, which is recognized by 85% of Russian consumers and gaining attention internationally.
- Cooperations with Islamic countries and organizations
RusQuality is also active in standardization efforts, collaborating with Islamic countries and organizations. It participates in the Interstate Technical Committee, which works to harmonize halal standards across member countries.
"When developing interstate standards, we use SMIIC (Standards and Metrology Institute for Islamic Countries) standards, which take into account the requirements for halal products of all four main madhhabs in Islam and do not require additional adaptation," he said.
Looking ahead, RusQuality plans to deepen cooperation with countries in Asia and the Middle East, focusing on both halal and organic certification.
At the recent opening of the halal market at KazanForum, RusQuality confirmed that the "Kazan Expo" international exhibition center fully complies with halal standards, according to Protasov.
Describing the forum as a vital platform for fostering partnerships and exchanging expertise for participating countries, Protasov said that "the value of the whole forum is in the solutions and agreements for win-win partnership."
Reporting by Aysenur Saglam in Kazan, Tatarstan
Writing by Firdevs Yuksel
Anadolu Agency