Indonesia updates its technical inspection and verification program to enforce stricter import regulations for plastics, textiles, footwear, and hazardous chemicals.
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| New regulations by Indonesia’s Ministry of Trade enforce mandatory inspections and certifications for plastics, textiles, and hazardous chemicals to ensure compliance. Image: Ben Christie |
Geneva, Switzerland — March 13, 2025:
Indonesia, the largest economy in Southeast Asia, is strengthening its import regulations with the introduction of a revised technical inspection and verification program. This update aims to enhance the country’s ability to regulate imported goods, protect its domestic market, and ensure compliance with stringent safety and quality standards.
In 2024, Indonesia expanded its import licensing program to include a wider range of products. Plastics, textiles, bags, footwear, and hazardous chemicals are now subject to more rigorous inspection requirements. The Ministry of Trade (MOT) has designated a mandatory technical inspection for plastics products, which were added to the list of items requiring inspection before being shipped to Indonesia. The updated regulations are designed to monitor and verify the compliance of these commodities with national standards, ensuring safety for consumers and protecting the environment.
The new guidelines also impact importers of textiles and related goods, requiring them to submit trademark certificates when applying for import permits. The MOT has implemented a three-tiered licensing system, including General Import Permits for Consumption (API-U), Import Permits for Producers (API-P), and Import Permits for Suppliers of Raw Materials (PPBB). This will help streamline the process of importing textiles, bags, and footwear into the country while maintaining strict quality control.
Additionally, hazardous chemicals importers will need to comply with even stricter criteria. Importers now fall into two categories: manufacturers and general importers. Manufacturers will be required to obtain a recommendation letter from the Ministry of Industry, confirming that their goods meet the necessary safety and environmental standards. This move ensures that hazardous chemicals entering Indonesia do not pose a risk to public health or the environment.
As the world’s leading testing, inspection, and certification company, SGS plays a pivotal role in assisting businesses with compliance. SGS collaborates with KSO Sucofindo - Surveyor Indonesia in helping manage Indonesia’s largest commodity programs. With years of expertise in the region, SGS helps businesses meet these updated regulatory standards, ensuring fairer trade practices, consumer protection, and environmental sustainability.
These new regulations are part of Indonesia’s broader strategy to bolster its import control systems. With annual imports totaling USD 263 billion, Indonesia is taking significant steps to protect local industries from substandard imports. By enforcing more rigorous standards and expanding the scope of required documentation and inspections, the country aims to safeguard the quality of goods entering its markets.
This updated regulatory landscape is likely to impact new exporters looking to enter the Indonesian market. With SGS's support and guidance, businesses can navigate these changes, ensuring their products comply with the new requirements and avoid delays in shipment. The ultimate goal is to foster a safer, more sustainable trade environment for both consumers and industry players.