TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - European Union Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development Phil Hogan said that the European Union has been concerned with the regulation on halal products.

Hogan added that the European Union respects religious affairs, but cannot accept regulations restricting their trades.

"We respect for religious affairs, but we cannot accept unrealistic regulations that hamper EU trading practices," Hogan told Tempo at Hotel Intercontinental Jakarta Midplaza in Central Jakarta on Tuesday, November 8, 2016.

For instance, Hogan explained that the poultry slaughtering guides are incompatible with large-scale productions for exports. He suggested that halal and non-halal labels should be optional.

"The labeling is not necessary, and we believe that it should be optional," Hogan added. 

According to Hogan, such issues have come into EU investors' attention. Investor, Hogan revealed, need legal certainty in relation to the issue.

"The EU has a tradition related to halal product exports," Hogan said.

However, Mr. Hogan appreciated a number of steps taken by the government to reduce protectionism and simplify procedures for imports.

The EU, Hogan added, believes that Indonesia is on the right track. He revealed that the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) is the best opportunity for both parties to achieve positive cooperation results.

"If we work hard, we can create new and big opportunities for Indonesia and the EU," Hogan said.

DIKO OKTARA