<![CDATA[General Background: The increasing demand for halal-certified products underscores the importance of regulatory compliance among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Specific Background: In Indonesia, especially in regions like Deli Serdang, halal certification among MSMEs remains limited despite supportive policies. Knowledge Gap: Few studies empirically assess the behavioral and cognitive factors influencing halal certification compliance at the MSME level. Aims: This study aims to examine the relationship between halal certification compliance and four factors: halal awareness, knowledge, convenience, and producer attitudes among MSMEs in Deli Serdang Regency. Results: Using a quantitative descriptive approach with multiple linear regression on data from 100 purposively sampled participants, the study found that knowledge and convenience significantly affect compliance (p = 0.000), while awareness and producer attitudes do not (p = 0.100 and 0.120). Collectively, these factors explain 69% of the variance in compliance (R² = 0.690, p = 0.000). Novelty: The research uniquely combines psychological and practical constructs to analyze halal certification behavior, providing a comprehensive behavioral framework. Implications: These findings offer actionable insights for policymakers, certification authorities, and MSME stakeholders to design targeted training and regulatory support aimed at enhancing halal compliance and reducing certification barriers. Highlights : Highlights the dominant role of knowledge and convenience in halal certification compliance. Reveals that awareness and attitude alone do not ensure compliance. Offers policy insights to improve MSME halal practices through targeted interventions. Keywords: Halal Awareness, Halal Certification, MSME Compliance, Producer Attitudes, Halal Knowledge]]>
