Preparation for importing goods into Indonesia
Registration of the business identification number (NIB)
Under Government Regulation No. 29/2021 of Indonesia, enterprises are required to register for a Business Identification Number (NIB) in order to engage in the import and export of goods. Enterprises may apply for an NIB through the Online Single Submission (OSS) system.
Before this new regulation took effect, businesses importing goods into Indonesia, namely Indonesian importers, had to obtain import licenses separately, including a General Import License (API-U, permitting trading in imported goods) or an Import License for Producers (API-P, intended for enterprises importing inputs for production activities). At present, when an enterprise registers for an NIB, the OSS system automatically issues the appropriate type of API based on the enterprise's declared business sector and the intended use of the imported goods during the NIB registration process.
Determining the Import Category of Goods
Not all goods are permitted to be imported into Indonesia, and not all imported goods are subject to the same import regime.
In addition to the majority of goods that may be freely imported, Indonesia imposes import prohibitions and restrictions on certain specific categories of goods, meaning that such goods may only be imported if a specific license from the relevant ministry or authority is obtained, or if an import license under a quota is available.
Therefore, before importing goods into Indonesia, enterprises need to determine the applicable import category in order to prepare the necessary documents and supporting papers.
Businesses may consult the list of goods prohibited and restricted from import into Indonesia by following the guidance available at:
https://customspedia.com/how-to-check-prohibited-and-restricted-goods-lartas-in-indonesia/
Source: Center for WTO and International Trade - VCCI
