Import Business License in Indonesia

How Import Business License Can Help Your Trading Company

If your business depends on importing goods from other countries, getting an import business license in Indonesia should be one of your top priorities. Without it, shipments can get held up at customs, and your operations could face unnecessary delays or compliance issues.

But first, let us define what import is. Importing is the process of shipping goods or commodities to your home country from another country. This should undergo legal processes, which sometimes require inspection.

In Indonesia, trade in goods accounts for a large share of the country’s gross domestic product. It is known for importing large numbers of goods, only to export them again to other countries.  By obtaining the necessary import permits, trading companies can manage supply chains effectively, comply with regulatory standards, and maintain competitiveness in both domestic and international markets.

What are the Different Types of Import Business License Permit in Indonesia?

Companies seeking import goods in Indonesia requires import identification number as regulated by the Ministry of Trade. This number serves as the company’s official record in the national importer database, tracking all import activities and ensuring compliance with Indonesian trade regulations.

The types of import business license depending on the purpose of the imported items. These are the following:

1. General import license or Angka Pengenal Importir Umum

The General Import License (API-U) allows companies to import goods for commercial trading and resale in Indonesia. Following regulatory updates issued by the Ministry of Trade, API-U holders are no longer restricted to a single product category and may import multiple types of goods, subject to sector-specific regulations. 

This license also removes the previous requirement to maintain formal contractual relationships with overseas suppliers, providing greater flexibility in sourcing and supply chain management while ensuring full compliance with Indonesian import regulations.

2. Producer Import License or Angka Pengenal Importir Produsen

The Producer Import License (API-P) is issued to manufacturing companies that import goods exclusively for internal production purposes. Goods imported under this license must be used as raw materials, components, or supporting materials and are not permitted for resale. 

API-P holders must demonstrate that imported items are directly linked to their registered manufacturing activities, ensuring alignment with Indonesia’s production and trade compliance requirements.

3. Limited Import License

A Limited Import License applies to specific goods subject to stricter regulatory controls, including restricted or sensitive products. This license is granted on a case-by-case basis and may require additional approvals from relevant ministries or regulatory authorities. 

The scope and validity of a limited import license depend on the product category and prevailing trade policies, making accurate classification and regulatory compliance essential.

 

What are the Application Process of Import License in Indonesia?

Applying for an import license in Indonesia is a structured process designed to ensure regulatory compliance while enabling smooth import operations. The procedure is largely digital and handled through the government’s Online Single Submission (OSS) system and the Indonesia National Single Window (INSW). 

When documentation is complete and accurately submitted, approvals are issued within 3 to 10 working days.

Step 1: Establish a Legally Registered Business

To begin, your company must be legally incorporated in Indonesia and hold a valid Taxpayer Identification Number (NPWP). Only registered entities are permitted to engage in import activities, making this a foundational requirement.

Step 2: Obtain a Business Identification Number (NIB)

The next step is registering on the OSS platform to obtain a Business Identification Number. The NIB also functions as the Importer Identification Number (API). At this stage, companies must select the appropriate importer type—API-U for trading companies or API-P for manufacturers, based on how the imported goods will be used.

Step 3: Classify Products and Identify Regulatory Requirements

Each product must be classified under the correct Harmonised System (HS) Code. This classification determines whether the goods are unrestricted or require additional approvals, such as SNI certification for regulated products or BPOM authorisation for food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical items. Proper classification at this stage helps prevent customs delays.

Step 4: Submit Import Documentation via INSW

All required documents are submitted electronically through the Indonesia National Single Window (INSW). These typically include the company’s deed of establishment, proof of domicile, NIB, and any sector-specific licenses. Accurate submission is critical to ensure timely processing and approval.

Step 5: Activate Customs Access (NIK)

Importers must register for a Customs Identification Number (Nomor Induk Kepabeanan – NIK) with the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. This enables system access for customs declarations and allows shipments to be processed efficiently.

Step 6: Secure Import Approval (Persetujuan Impor)

For regulated or controlled goods, a specific Import Approval (Persetujuan Impor – PI) must be obtained from the Ministry of Trade before importation. This approval is product-specific and ensures compliance with Indonesia’s trade and safety regulations.

 

What Documents are Required for Obtaining An Import License in Indonesia?

To legally import goods into Indonesia, companies must submit a defined set of corporate, tax, and product-specific documents through the government’s licensing platforms. Depending on the nature of the goods, additional certifications such as SNI or BPOM approvals may be required before import clearance is granted.

Core Documents Required for Import Licensing include:

1. Business Identification Number (NIB)

The Business Identification Number (Nomor Induk Berusaha – NIB) is obtained through the Online Single Submission (OSS) system and serves as the company’s primary business registration. For import activities, the NIB also functions as the Importer Identification Number (API), authorising the company to conduct import operations in Indonesia.

2. Taxpayer Identification Number (NPWP)

The Taxpayer Identification Number (Nomor Pokok Wajib Pajak – NPWP) is mandatory for all companies operating in Indonesia. It is required for tax compliance, customs declarations, and all import-related transactions.

3. Customs Access Registration (NIK)

Importers must register for Customs Access (Nomor Induk Kepabeanan – NIK) with the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. This registration enables access to Indonesia’s customs systems and is essential for submitting import declarations and clearing goods at the port of entry.

4. Specific Import Approvals (Persetujuan Impor – PI)

Importers must register for Customs Access (Nomor Induk Kepabeanan – NIK) with the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. This approval must be secured before importation.

 

Technical Requirements and Product-Specific Permits

Permit / Requirement	Applicable Goods	Regulatory Purpose
SNI Certification (Standar Nasional Indonesia)	Regulated consumer, industrial, and electronic products	Verifies compliance with Indonesian quality, safety, and performance standards; mandatory for certain product categories prior to import and market distribution.
BPOM Authorization	Food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, health supplements	Confirms conformity with national health and safety regulations; ensures products are safe for consumer use.
Quarantine Clearance	Plants, animals, agricultural products, and biological materials	Mitigates biosecurity risks by preventing the introduction of pests, diseases, or invasive species into Indonesia; required before customs clearance

 

How to Secure Import Business License in Indonesia in 2026?

Obtaining an import business license in Indonesia requires careful compliance with regulatory requirements and coordination with multiple authorities.

Here are the following steps you need to secure an import business license in Indonesia.

Step 1: Incorporate a Trading Company

The first step is to establish a legally registered business in Indonesia. This includes registering the company, obtaining a Taxpayer Identification Number (NPWP), and securing approval for the Deed of Establishment from the Ministry of Law and Human Rights. 

Step 2: Obtain a Business Identification Number 

Register through the Online Single Submission (OSS) system to obtain a Business Identification Number (NIB), which also serves as the Importer Identification Number (API). Companies must select the appropriate classification based on their operations: API-U (General Importer) and API-P (Producer Importer).

Step 3: Classify Your Products & Identify Permits

Each product must be classified by its HS Code to determine the applicable regulatory requirements. Certain goods may require additional certifications or permits, including SNI Certification, BPOM Approval, & Quarantine Clearance.

Step 4: Submit Documentation via INSW

All required documents must be submitted through the Indonesia National Single Window (INSW) system. This includes the Deed of Establishment and Ministerial approval, the Company domicile certificate, NIB/API registration, the Product-specific permits, Import plan or forecast, the commercial invoices, and the supporting documentation.

Step 5: Register for Customs Access

Obtain a Customs Identification Number (Nomor Induk Kepabeanan – NIK) from the Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC). This registration is essential for submitting customs declarations and for efficient shipment clearance.

Step 6: Secure Specific Import Approvals

For restricted or regulated goods, companies must obtain Import Approval (Persetujuan Impor – PI) from the Ministry of Trade. This approval is mandatory before shipments arrive in Indonesia and is issued based on the product category and applicable trade regulations.

 

Restricted and Prohibited Products For Import in Indonesia

Indonesia regulates imports strictly to protect domestic industries, public safety, and national security. Certain products require special permits or identification numbers, while others are completely prohibited from entry.

Restricted Products Requiring a Special Importer Identification Number

The following items require a special importer identification number:

• Rice
• Corn
• Soybean
• Sugar
• Textile and textile products
• Electronics and electronic components
• Toys

Importing these items without the special identification number is prohibited. These regulations aim to control supply, safeguard local industries, and maintain market stability.

 

Completely Prohibited Import Goods

Certain products are entirely banned from entering Indonesia, including:

• pornographic materials
• drugs
• politically sensitive materials and paraphernalia

In addition, importing weapons, explosives, firearms, and ammunition requires a special permit.

 

3E Accounting is the best partner you can ask to complete your Indonesia business license application. Every step of the way, our team is here to help you and your company. Contact us today.

Frequently Asked Questions