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A Comprehensive Guide to Indonesia’s Customs and Import Duty Regulations

Indonesia’s customs and import duty regulations are essential for both travelers and businesses involved in international trade. Understanding these rules can help ensure smooth transactions and compliance with local laws. This guide provides insights into customs duties, excise tariffs, and recent regulatory updates affecting imports into Indonesia.

Customs Duties and Excise Taxes: An Overview
The Indonesian government imposes customs duties on imported goods to regulate the market, protect domestic industries, and generate state revenue. Customs duties and excise taxes vary based on the type, value, and classification of goods.

Excise taxes specifically apply to products that may have social or environmental impacts, including:

•Ethyl alcohol (ethanol)

•Alcoholic beverages

•Tobacco products

These items are taxed to control consumption and monitor distribution, preventing negative effects on public health and safety.

Restrictions on Passenger Luggage from Abroad
Recent regulatory updates, such as the Minister of Trade Regulation Number 7 of 2024, have introduced limits on items that international travelers can bring into Indonesia. These restrictions help prevent excessive imports that may disrupt local markets. Below are some key limitations:

•Rice – Maximum of 5 kg per passenger

•Sugar – Maximum of 5 kg per passenger

•Mobile devices (phones, tablets, handheld computers) – Maximum of 2 units per person

•Alcoholic beverages – Maximum of 1 liter

•Cosmetics – Up to 20 pieces per person

•Footwear – Maximum of 2 pairs per person

•Electronics – Up to 5 units, not exceeding an FOB (Free on Board) value of US$1,500

•Traditional medicines and health supplements – Limited to an FOB value of US$1,500 per person

•Textile goods and apparel – No restrictions on quantity or value

•Toys – Maximum FOB value of US$1,500 per person

For medicines, the quantity allowed varies •depending on the type of preparation, ranging from 3 to 30 pieces per person. Additionally, certain luxury goods such as branded bags and jewelry may be subject to additional taxes.

Import Duties on Shipped Goods
•For goods shipped via postal or courier services, the Indonesian government has specific import duty regulations outlined in Minister of Finance Regulation Number 199/PMK.10/2019. Key rules include:

•Items with an FOB value exceeding US$3 (Rp47,893) are subject to import duties.

•Goods valued above US$1,500 are subject to general import duties.

•Sample or gift items with an FOB value greater than US$3 also incur import duties.

•Luxury goods such as designer bags and high-end jewelry may attract additional Luxury Goods Sales Tax (PPnBM).

The standard import duty rate for shipments valued between US$3 and US$1,500 is 7.5%, with an additional 11% Value Added Tax (VAT). For shipments exceeding US$1,500, special import provisions apply.

Staying Compliant with Indonesia’s Import Rules
For individuals and businesses importing goods into Indonesia, it is crucial to stay informed about customs regulations and duty rates. Non-compliance can result in penalties, delays, or confiscation of goods. By adhering to these rules, importers can facilitate smooth transactions and avoid unnecessary complications.

For further details and official updates, consulting the Directorate General of Customs and Excise website or relevant government agencies is recommended.


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