About Import Licensing
business company
3/1/20254 min read
The process of importing goods into Indonesia requires a series of licenses that must be fulfilled by every entrepreneur or company that wants to carry out import activities. Import licensing aims to ensure that goods entering Indonesia comply with applicable regulations and standards, as well as to maintain safety, health, and environmental sustainability. This article will discuss in detail about import licensing in Indonesia, the types of licenses required, and the procedures for obtaining them.
1. What is Import Licensing?
Import licensing is a series of permits and documents that must be owned by importers before importing goods from abroad into Indonesia. This license aims to regulate the traffic of goods, protect domestic industries, and ensure that imported goods do not endanger public health and safety.
2.Types of Import Licenses
There are several types of permits required to import goods into Indonesia, depending on the type of goods being imported. Here are some of the commonly required permits:
a. Trade Business License (SIUP)
SIUP is a license granted to companies to carry out trading activities in Indonesia. Importers who want to import goods must have a SIUP as proof of the company's legality in trading activities, including importing goods.
Procedure: Submit an application to the local Trade Office by attaching documents such as the company's deed of establishment, NPWP, and ID card of the company's management.
b. Importer Identification Number (API)
API is a license granted by the Ministry of Trade to companies that will import goods. APIs are divided into two types:
API-U (General API): For companies that want to import general goods.
API-P (Manufacturer's API): For companies that only import goods used for the production of other goods.
Procedure: Apply for an API to the Directorate General of Foreign Trade of the Ministry of Trade. API applications usually require documents such as SIUP, NPWP, company deed of establishment, as well as a statement letter on the type of goods to be imported.
c. Special Import Permit (Special Permit for Specific Goods)
For certain types of goods, such as pharmaceuticals, hazardous chemicals, or goods that can damage the environment, importers are required to have a special license from the relevant agency. Some examples of special permits include:
Distribution License from BPOM: For medicine, cosmetics, and food products.
Environmental Permit from the Ministry of Environment: For goods that may pollute the environment or dangerous goods.
Quarantine Permit from the Ministry of Agriculture: For agricultural and animal products.
d. Taxpayer Identification Number (NPWP)
NPWP is a number assigned by the Directorate General of Taxes to individuals or business entities that are taxpayers in Indonesia. NPWP is required for tax purposes and as an administrative requirement in various licenses, including imports.
e. Customs Documents
This document is required for compliance with customs regulations in Indonesia. Some of the customs documents required in the import process include:
Goods Import Notification (PIB): A document that must be submitted to Customs when goods enter Indonesia.
Goods Release Notification Letter (SPPB): A document used to notify the release of goods from temporary storage.
Invoice and Packing List: Invoices and packing lists that serve to verify the value and quantity of imported goods.
3. Procedures for Applying for Import Licenses
The process of applying for an import license in Indonesia may vary depending on the type of license and the goods being imported. The following are the general procedures that need to be followed to obtain an import license:
a. Importer Registration
The first step to obtain an import license is to register as an importer through the Ministry of Trade by obtaining an API (Importer Identification Number). Before applying for an API, make sure your company is registered with valid documents such as SIUP and NPWP.
b. Applying for an Import License
After having an API, you can apply for an import license according to the type of goods to be imported. If the goods to be imported include goods that require a special license, you must apply for the license to the relevant agencies (such as BPOM, Ministry of Environment, or Ministry of Agriculture).
c. Customs Administration Settlement
After the import permit is issued, the importer must complete the administration at Customs by filing a Goods Import Notification (PIB) to record the incoming goods. You also need to prepare related documents, such as invoices, packing lists, and origin documents.
d. Payment of Taxes and Import Duties
Importers are required to pay import duties, import taxes, and other fees imposed by Customs. These fees are calculated based on the value of the imported goods, the import duty rate, and the type of goods imported.
e. Release of Goods from the Stockpile
After the administrative process is completed and the fees are paid, the goods can be removed from the stockpile and forwarded to the warehouse or shipping destination in accordance with applicable regulations.
4. Import Licensing Fees
Import licensing fees vary depending on the type of goods being imported and the applicable regulations. Some costs that must be taken into account by importers include:
API registration fees and other import licenses.
Import duties and taxes.
Administration fees at Customs.
Goods inspection and certification fees (if required).
5. Penalties
Importers who do not fulfill import license requirements or violate applicable regulations may be subject to sanctions or fines. Common sanctions include suspension of import licenses, administrative fines, or even a ban on imports.
6. Conclusion
Import licensing is a very important step for any company that wants to import goods from abroad into Indonesia. This process involves different types of permits that need to be fulfilled according to the type of goods being imported. Therefore, entrepreneurs must understand and comply with the applicable procedures and conditions to avoid legal and administrative problems. By following the right procedures, you can carry out import activities smoothly and legally.
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