5 Key Regulatory Shifts to Reshape APAC Food & Beverage in 2026

As the APAC food and beverage industry gears up for 2026, several significant regulatory shifts are poised to reshape business operations and strategies. Companies must navigate evolving compliance landscapes, from stricter certification mandates to changing nutritional and tax policies, to remain competitive and compliant with APAC food beverage regulation.

As the food and beverage industry in the Asia-Pacific region enters 2026, several regulatory updates and policy shifts are expected to have significant business impact. From stricter certification mandates to changing nutritional and tax policies, companies will need to adapt strategies to stay compliant and competitive.

1. Indonesia’s Halal Certification Mandate Continues to Expand

Indonesia is continuing the rollout of its halal product certification requirement for all local and imported foods and beverages. Although the mandate first came into effect in October 2024, many small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are still in the process of obtaining certification due to cost and procedural challenges. Efforts are ongoing to broaden coverage by October 2026, including a simplified digital program (SIHALAL) to support smaller producers.

2. Salt and Sodium Regulations Drive Reformulation

Health-focused regulations targeting sodium content are prompting reformulation efforts across several APAC markets. Thailand’s tiered salt tax and Singapore’s planned expansion of its Nutri-Grade nutrient labelling system — which grades products by salt and sugar content — are pushing manufacturers to lower sodium levels in foods. This trend mirrors ongoing efforts to tackle diet-related health issues through policy levers.

3. Tax Policies Create Winners and Losers

Fiscal policy continues to influence the industry. In Malaysia, increased excise duties on alcoholic beverages — already among the highest globally — are forecast to raise prices and potentially drive consumers toward illicit products. Conversely, in India, recent GST simplification has reduced taxes on many food and beverage items, presenting opportunities for growth by boosting disposable income and consumption.

4. European Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) Delay Affects Supply Chains

Although it is an EU regulation, the European Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) has global implications for supply chains that service European markets. The implementation has been postponed until December 30, 2026, following ongoing revision and simplification efforts by the European Commission. This continued uncertainty poses planning challenges for APAC exporters.

5. Redefined GM Food Categories in Australia and New Zealand

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has updated its definition of genetically modified (GM) foods: only products containing “novel DNA” will now be classified as GM. This opens the door for broader use of new breeding techniques (NBTs) without mandatory GM labelling, as long as no novel DNA is introduced — a move that has drawn both industry support and criticism from consumer and organic advocacy groups.

Why This Matters

These regulatory developments will influence product labelling, certification costs, reformulation strategies, tax planning and market access across APAC — making 2026 a pivotal year for food and beverage manufacturers, suppliers and exporters in the region.

Indonesia's Expanding Halal Certification Mandate

Indonesia is continuing the rollout of its halal product certification requirement for all local and imported foods and beverages. Although the mandate first came into effect in October 2024, many small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are still in the process of obtaining certification due to cost and procedural challenges. Efforts are ongoing to broaden coverage by October 2026, including a simplified digital program (SIHALAL) to support smaller producers.

Sodium Regulations Driving Reformulation in APAC

Health-focused regulations targeting sodium content are prompting reformulation efforts across several APAC markets. Thailand’s tiered salt tax and Singapore’s planned expansion of its Nutri-Grade nutrient labelling system — which grades products by salt and sugar content — are pushing manufacturers to lower sodium levels in foods. This trend mirrors ongoing efforts to tackle diet-related health issues through policy levers.

Impact of Tax Policies on the Food and Beverage Sector

Fiscal policy continues to influence the industry. In Malaysia, increased excise duties on alcoholic beverages — already among the highest globally — are forecast to raise prices and potentially drive consumers toward illicit products. Conversely, in India, recent GST simplification has reduced taxes on many food and beverage items, presenting opportunities for growth by boosting disposable income and consumption.

European Deforestation Regulation's Influence on APAC

Redefined GM Food Categories in Australia and New Zealand

Conclusion

These pivotal APAC food beverage regulation changes in 2026 will undoubtedly influence product labelling, certification costs, reformulation strategies, tax planning, and market access across the region, making it a crucial year for manufacturers, suppliers, and exporters.

Related Resources

• Why India’s Food and Drink Supply Chain Is Feeling the Heat
• Harajuku Tokyo Café & Bakehouse Announced Major Expansion Across Indian Cities
• Yoichi by Shiro Introduces Southeast Asian Thali Inspired by Regional Night Markets
• Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ)
• European Commission
• World Health Organization (WHO) on Salt Reduction