Export-Import Business in Indonesia 2026: Complete Guide
Indonesia's strategic location and large market make it ideal for international trade. Here's how foreigners can set up import-export operations.
Trade Business Overview
Indonesia offers:
- 270 million consumer market
- Strategic position in ASEAN
- Growing manufacturing base
- Rich natural resources for export
- Free trade agreements with major markets
Import vs Export Licenses
API License Types
Import licenses for different activities
| Feature | API-U (General) Angka Pengenal Impor Umum | API-P (Producer) Angka Pengenal Impor Produsen |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Import for trading/selling | Import for own production |
| Can Sell | Yes, to anyone | Only finished goods |
| Most Common | Trading companies | Manufacturers |
| Restrictions | Some product limits | Raw materials only |
Export License
For exports, you need:
- ET (Eksportir Terdaftar) - Registered Exporter for certain goods
- Some products require specific export permits
- Most products can be exported with just NIB
Business Structure
PT PMA for Trading
Foreign-owned trading companies can:
- Import goods for resale
- Export Indonesian products
- Act as distributor
- Wholesale to retailers
Trading PT PMA requires: - Minimum IDR 10 billion investment - Paid-up capital IDR 2.5 billion - Proper warehouse facilities (for certain goods)
- Registered import/export codes
Setup Process
Import-Export Business Setup
From company to first shipment
Required Documents
Import-Export Documentation
What you need for trading
company
trade
customs
tax
operations
product
Customs & Duties
Import Duties
| Category | Duty Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Raw materials | 0-5% | Often lower |
| Semi-finished | 5-15% | Varies by product |
| Finished goods | 10-40% | Higher protection |
| Luxury items | 20-200% | Additional luxury tax |
Other Import Charges
- VAT (PPN): 11% on CIF + duty
- Income Tax (PPh 22): 2.5% with API, 7.5% without
- Luxury Tax (PPnBM): On certain goods
Research your product's HS Code (Harmonized System) to understand:
- Applicable duty rate
- Import restrictions
- Required permits
- Documentation needs
Use Indonesia's INSW portal for HS code lookup.
Product Restrictions
Import Restrictions
Some products require additional permits:
- Food/Beverages: BPOM registration
- Electronics: SNI certification
- Cosmetics: BPOM + Halal
- Pharmaceuticals: Strict licensing
- Textiles: Quota systems may apply
Prohibited Items
- Drugs/narcotics
- Weapons (without license)
- Certain agricultural products
- Products violating IP rights
- Items against public morals
Export Opportunities
Top Indonesian Exports
- Palm oil products
- Coal and minerals
- Textiles and garments
- Rubber products
- Electronics
- Processed food
- Furniture and handicrafts
Export Requirements
- ET (Registered Exporter) for certain goods
- Export documentation (invoice, packing list, etc.)
- Pre-shipment inspection (some products)
- Certificate of origin (for preferential rates)
Bonded Zones
Kawasan BerikatBenefits of Bonded Zones
- Defer import duties until goods enter domestic market
- VAT and income tax facilities
- Streamlined customs procedures
- Ideal for manufacturing for export
Freight and Logistics
Key Ports
- Jakarta (Tanjung Priok) - Largest, most congested
- Surabaya (Tanjung Perak) - East Java hub
- Semarang (Tanjung Emas) - Central Java
- Medan (Belawan) - North Sumatra
Air Cargo
- Soekarno-Hatta (CGK) - Main international
- Ngurah Rai (DPS) - Bali
- Juanda (SUB) - Surabaya
Freight Forwarders
Work with established forwarders who can:
- Handle customs clearance
- Manage documentation
- Arrange inland transport
- Provide bonded warehouse
Common Mistakes
- Wrong API type - API-U vs API-P must match activity
- Ignoring product regulations - Some goods need special permits
- Undervaluing goods - Customs penalties are severe
- No proper documentation - Delays and extra costs
- Wrong HS code - Different duties, potential penalties
- Ignoring quotas/restrictions - Some products limited
Common Questions
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