HCS and IMANOR Morocco sign MRA for the scopes: food and cosmetics

Halal Certification Services (HCS) Switzerland and IMANOR (Moroccan Institute for Standardization) sign Landmark Mutual Recognition Agreement for Food and Cosmetics Sectors.

Rheinfelden, Switzerland / Rabat, Morocco – 09/10/2025 – In a significant move to boost international trade and strengthen consumer confidence, Halal Certification Services (HCS Switzerland) and the Moroccan Institute for Standardization (IMANOR) have officially signed a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA). This landmark agreement, effective immediately, will remain in force until the end of 2027.

The agreement establishes a formal framework of cooperation and trust between the two esteemed bodies. It signifies that the halal certificates issued for food and cosmetic products schemes certified by HCS Switzerland are recognized as equivalent to those of IMANOR, and vice-versa.

This strategic partnership is set to streamline market access for producers and exporters in both Switzerland and Morocco. Companies certified by HCS will benefit from facilitated entry into the Moroccan market, while those certified by IMANOR will enjoy the same advantage for the Swiss market. This eliminates the need for duplicate halal certification processes, reducing time, costs, and administrative burdens for businesses.

Key Benefits of the Agreement:

• Facilitated Trade: Simplifies and accelerates the cross-border trade of halal food and cosmetic products between Switzerland, Morocco, and their respective trade partners.
• Cost Reduction for Businesses: Eliminates redundant testing and certification costs for exporters, making them more competitive in international markets.
• Enhanced Consumer Trust: Reinforces the integrity of the halal supply chain by aligning two reputable certification bodies under a recognized standard of quality and compliance.
• Strengthened Bilateral Relations: Represents a deepening of economic and technical cooperation between Switzerland and Morocco in the strategic halal industry.
• HCS Switzerland stated, 'This agreement is a testament to our shared commitment to the highest standards of halal integrity and quality. By joining forces with IMANOR, a leading national standards body, we are breaking down barriers to trade and providing unparalleled value to the businesses we serve. This is a major step forward for the global halal ecosystem.'
• IMANOR added, 'The signing of this MRA with HCS Switzerland aligns perfectly with our mission to promote quality, safety, and standardization. This not only benefits Moroccan and Swiss enterprises but also strengthens the position of the Moroccan halal standard on the international stage. We are confident this collaboration will foster significant growth and innovation in the halal food and cosmetics sectors.'
• The agreement is expected to have a positive impact on a wide range of stakeholders, including manufacturers, exporters, importers, and consumers in both regions, promoting economic growth and ensuring a reliable supply of high-quality halal products.

About Halal Certification Services (HCS):

HCS Switzerland is an internationally recognized and independent organization providing halal certification services. With a commitment to transparency, scientific rigor and islamic compliance, HCS serves as a trusted partner for companies seeking to access global halal markets.

About IMANOR:

The Moroccan Institute for Standardization (IMANOR) is the official national standards body of the Kingdom of Morocco. IMANOR is responsible for developing and publishing Moroccan standards (NM), including the comprehensive halal standard for food and cosmetic products, and for managing the national halal certification scheme.