Halal Mark code of conduct & ethical behaviour policy

Halal Mark Limited is committed to upholding the highest ethical standards, ensuring professionalism, integrity, and impartiality in all halal certification activities. Every individual representing the organisation, including auditors, scholars, contractors, and employees, is expected to adhere to ethical principles that safeguard trust, transparency, and compliance with halal certification requirements. A culture of honesty and fairness is promoted to prevent deception, misrepresentation, or manipulation of findings, and any unethical behaviour, malpractice, or non-compliance must be reported immediately.

Impartiality in decision-making is a fundamental principle, ensuring certification processes remain independent of commercial, political, or personal influences. Personnel must actively avoid conflicts of interest and disclose any situation where personal or financial interests may interfere with objective judgment. Accepting gifts, favours, or benefits that could compromise professional integrity is strictly prohibited. All interactions with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders must be conducted with respect, fairness, and professionalism, without discrimination based on race, religion, nationality, gender, disability, or political affiliation. Disagreements should be managed professionally and constructively.

Individuals involved in halal certification must declare any personal, financial, or business interests that could impact impartiality and refrain from participation in audits or certification decisions where a conflict exists. Annual conflict-of-interest declarations are required or must be updated when circumstances change. Client information, audit findings, and certification data are strictly confidential and must not be disclosed to unauthorised parties without explicit consent or legal requirement. All personnel must comply with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018 to ensure the proper handling and security of sensitive data.              

Halal Mark Limited enforces a zero-tolerance policy on bribery and corruption, prohibiting any attempt to offer, solicit, or accept inducements that could influence certification outcomes. Personnel must comply with the UK Bribery Act 2010 and related anti-corruption regulations, reporting any attempt at bribery immediately. Compliance with legal, regulatory, and halal certification requirements is essential, including adherence to recognised halal standards such as GSO, SMIIC, and UAE.S 2055-2. Internal policies, procedures, and guidelines must be followed, and personnel are expected to maintain up-to-date knowledge of halal certification requirements.

Accountability is a core expectation, and all personnel must take responsibility for ethical conduct, ensuring Halal Mark Limited’s reputation remains intact. Any unethical practices, misconduct, or breaches of policy must be reported through designated channels, including whistleblowing procedures. Investigations into breaches will be handled fairly, respecting confidentiality and due process. Violations may result in formal warnings, suspension from duties, termination of contracts or employment, and legal action where necessary.

This policy is reviewed annually or earlier in response to legal, operational, or regulatory changes. All personnel must read, understand, and sign an acknowledgment of compliance, with the policy communicated through onboarding and refresher training sessions. Leadership is committed to ensuring ethical behaviour is maintained, reinforced, and continuously improved to uphold the credibility and integrity of halal certification services