Indonesia Country Commercial Guide
Learn about the market conditions, opportunities, regulations, and business conditions in indonesia, prepared by at U.S. Embassies worldwide by Commerce Department, State Department and other U.S. agencies’ professionals
Select Country Guide
Import Requirements and Documentation
Last published date:

The Government of Indonesia (GOI) requires comprehensive documentation for the importation of goods. U.S. exporters are strongly encouraged to work with experienced local customs brokers who are familiar with the evolving regulatory environment, required formats, and electronic systems.

At a minimum, import documentation must include:

  • Proforma invoice
  • Commercial invoice
  • Certificate of origin
  • Bill of landing or airway bill
  • Packing list
  • Insurance certificate

These documents are essential for customs clearance and must be submitted electronically through the Indonesia National Single Windows (INSW) platform using standardized Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) formats, and submissions typically occur prior to cargo arrival. In certain cases, custom authorities may require importers to upload flash drive backups for manual verification, depending on the customs post involved.

In addition, importers must hold a valid Import Identification Number (API) and the appropriate import license. Depending on the type of the goods, additional permits or certificates of analysis, registration or compliance may be necessary, especially for products regulated by sector-specific agencies such as food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, seeds, and chemicals.  These documents must often be submitted prior to shipment approval. Importers without an API may apply for a special import permit from the Ministry of Trade, typically reserved for temporary or limited shipments.

Upon arrival, all goods are subject to customs inspections, which may include document verification and physical inspection, especially for red-line cargo or regulated products. Indonesia applies import duties based on the product’s classification under the Harmonized System (HS) Code, as specified in the Indonesian Customs Tariff Book (BTKI).

Labeling requirements have also been enforced since 2013. All food products must display Indonesian language labels, which include nutritional content, expiration dates, and manufacturer/importer identification. Additional labeling regulations apply to pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, household goods, and electronic products.

Indonesia has introduced several regulatory updates that impact import documentation and custom compliance. A notable change includes Regulation No. PER-5/BC/2025 by the Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DGCE) which revised customs declaration protocols.

U.S. exporters should ensure their Indonesian importer is up to date with the latest regulatory changes and required approvals. Delays or rejections often occur due to minor document errors, missing pre-import permits, or failure to comply with technical agency requirements.