About Me
Imam Mansoor Rafiq Umar has supervised Halal Watch’s halal certification program since its establishment in 1985 — providing the Islamic scholarly oversight that distinguishes accredited third-party certification from administrative box-checking. Under his leadership, Halal Watch developed the Halal Integrity Protection Standards (HIPS 1001-1003) that now govern professional halal certification practice across the United States, and established audit methodologies recognized by the GCC Accreditation Center, CICOT, and MJC.
Through Halal Watch, Imam Rafiq guides manufacturers, restaurants, slaughterhouses, commissary kitchens, grocery chains, and institutional food services in accessing the large and growing market of halal-conscious consumers. The organization supports businesses of all sizes and works closely with U.S. and international partners to ensure compliance, integrity, and market readiness.
What makes this work especially impactful is the strength of the network behind it. Imam Rafiq collaborates with policymakers, regulators, religious scholars, certifying bodies, and international trade partners across the United States, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. These relationships enable him to open doors that are often closed to others, bridging industry, government, and community in ways that drive meaningful change.
With a unique vantage point spanning government, academia, faith leadership, and global trade, Imam Rafiq stands at the forefront of shaping the halal industry’s future in America and beyond.
What makes this work especially impactful is the strength of the network behind it. Imam Rafiq collaborates with policymakers, regulators, religious scholars, certifying bodies, and international trade partners across the United States, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. These relationships enable him to open doors that are often closed to others, bridging industry, government, and community in ways that drive meaningful change.
With a unique vantage point spanning government, academia, faith leadership, and global trade, Imam Rafiq stands at the forefront of shaping the halal industry’s future in America and beyond.
Certifications
