Capitalargo.com – Indonesia is one of the most important agricultural economies in Southeast Asia, with a diverse output that includes palm oil, rubber, coffee, cocoa, spices, fisheries, and a fast-expanding horticulture sector. As global food demand grows, Indonesia’s role in both importing essential commodities and exporting agricultural products becomes more significant. Understanding the legal and procedural framework is therefore critical for businesses aiming to enter this market.
This article serves as a comprehensive and practical guide to import-export regulations for agricultural products in Indonesia, offering clarity on licensing, standards, trade restrictions, labeling requirements, and the role of government agencies. It is designed to help exporters, importers, traders, and agribusiness investors make informed decisions and avoid costly regulatory mistakes.
With Indonesia’s agricultural exports valued at USD 53.3 billion in 2024 and imports at USD 26.4 billion, navigating these regulations is key to tapping into this dynamic sector.
Why Indonesia’s Agricultural Trade Rules Are Complex but Essential to Understand
Indonesia prioritizes agricultural self-sufficiency in key commodities such as rice, corn, soybeans, sugar, and beef. As a result, its trade policies are a mix of market-driven opportunities and protective mechanisms intended to stabilize domestic prices and support local farmers.
This intricate system makes a guide to import-export regulations for agricultural products in Indonesia essential for anyone planning to participate in the country’s agricultural supply chain. Regulations may vary depending on commodity type, import purpose, quality standard, and food safety classification. Effective August 2025, Permendag 18/2025 introduces stricter controls on agricultural and livestock imports, mandating PI (Persetujuan Impor) and LS (Laporan Surveyor) for all covered commodities, with exemptions for specific zones and export schemes.
Understanding the regulatory landscape is vital because:
- Indonesia often updates trade rules based on supply fluctuation.
- Agricultural goods must comply with strict quarantine standards.
- Some commodities require special import permits or quotas.
- Violations can result in shipment rejection or legal penalties.
For companies entering the market, clarity and compliance determine whether business runs smoothly or becomes blocked by regulatory obstacles. As Indonesia-Australia trade evolves under IA-CEPA—see how Indonesia and Australia will shape the future of regional trade—agricultural exporters can leverage tariff reductions for spices and horticulture, but must still meet Indonesia’s stringent import standards for Australian beef and dairy.
Government Institutions Overseeing Agricultural Trade
Multiple agencies coordinate the country’s import-export system. Knowing their roles is fundamental to navigating the framework.
- Ministry of Agriculture (Kementerian Pertanian / Kementan)
Oversees food crop regulations, phytosanitary controls, and permits related to plant products, seeds, and livestock. - Ministry of Trade (Kemendag)
Issues trade permits, import licenses, export approvals, and manages quota-based commodities. Under Permendag 16/2025, effective August 30, 2025, import procedures are simplified with cluster-based regulations for agriculture. - National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM)
Ensures product safety, labeling, and testing for food-based agricultural goods. - Directorate General of Customs and Excise (Bea Cukai)
Handles customs declaration, duties, inspection procedures, and clearance. - Indonesian Quarantine Agency (Barantan)
A critical agency that enforces plant and animal quarantine protocols, conducts inspections, and issues health certificates.
As part of this guide to import-export regulations for agricultural products in Indonesia, understanding the functions of these agencies helps businesses predict which approvals they must secure.
Key Import Regulations for Agricultural Products
Importing agricultural goods involves a structured process designed to ensure food safety, protect local farmers, and maintain national supply stability. The process varies slightly by commodity, but several core regulatory elements must always be addressed.
Import Identification Number (API)
All importers must obtain an API—either API-U (General Importer) or API-P (Producer Importer). Without this number, customs clearance cannot proceed. The NIB (Business Identification Number) now serves as a unified substitute for import licenses via the OSS system.
Import Approval (Persetujuan Impor / PI)
Certain agricultural commodities require a PI from the Ministry of Trade before shipment. Examples include:
• Rice
• Sugar
• Salt
• Garlic and onions
• Beef and poultry
• Certain fruits
Under Permendag 18/2025, PI and LS are mandatory for all covered commodities.
RIPH for Plant-Based Goods
Importers of horticulture products need a Horticulture Product Import Recommendation (RIPH) issued by the Ministry of Agriculture. This ensures supply-demand balance.
Quarantine Requirements
Quarantine rules are among the strictest elements in this guide to import-export regulations for agricultural products in Indonesia. Importers must comply with:
• Phytosanitary certificates from the country of origin
• Mandatory inspections upon arrival
• Possible fumigation or laboratory testing
• Packaging and labeling that meets quarantine standards
Shipments failing quarantine checks can be denied entry or destroyed.
Product Registration for Food Items
Agricultural imports meant for consumption must be registered with BPOM, including labeling requirements such as ingredients, expiration dates, and allergen warnings.
Halal Certification (When Applicable)
Indonesia enforces mandatory halal certification for many products. Imported items may require halal assurance recognized by Indonesian authorities.
Key Export Regulations for Agricultural Products
Exporters must also meet strict conditions to ensure product quality and compliance with destination country requirements.
Exporter Registration (NIB)
All exporters must obtain a Business Identification Number (NIB) from the Online Single Submission (OSS) system.
Export Approval (PE)
Certain commodities require export permits, such as:
• Palm oil and derivatives
• Logs or timber
• Animals and animal products
• Strategic food commodities during shortage periods
Permendag 8/2025 revises prohibited exports, including agriculture like natural rubber, porang, rice, and kratom.
Phytosanitary and Veterinary Certificates
Products of plant or animal origin must undergo quarantine inspection and receive certificates for export. This ensures free passage into foreign markets.
Quality and Grading Standards
Indonesia enforces quality standards for export items, especially:
• Coffee
• Cocoa
• Rice
• Spices
• Meat
• Fishery products
Exporters must match international specifications to remain competitive.
Commodity-Specific Inspections
Some items undergo sampling tests, moisture level checks, size grading, or contamination screening. These steps ensure Indonesia maintains its global reputation for high-quality agricultural exports.
Restricted and Prohibited Agricultural Commodities
A crucial component of the guide to import-export regulations for agricultural products in Indonesia involves understanding restricted or banned items.
Restricted Imports May Include:
- Beef and dairy products
- Certain fruits and vegetables
- Seeds and planting materials
- Fertilizers and additives
- Poultry and eggs
Prohibited Imports Often Include:
- Diseased livestock
- Contaminated plant materials
- Genetically modified organisms without approval
Restricted Exports May Include:
- Raw minerals
- Palm oil during price control periods
- Certain forest products
- Rare plant species
Understanding restrictions is essential to avoid shipment rejection or sanctions.
Step-by-Step Process for Importing Agricultural Products
This practical guide to import-export regulations for agricultural products in Indonesia includes a clear breakdown of the import procedure.
- Register company and obtain API
- Apply for commodity-specific permits
- Receive RIPH (if needed)
- Arrange shipment
Indonesia’s International Trade Agreements Affecting Agriculture
Several trade agreements influence import-export dynamics:
- ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (AFTA)
- Indonesia–Australia CEPA
- Indonesia–Japan EPA
- Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)
These agreements reduce tariffs and harmonize regulations, improving market access for Indonesian agricultural products.
Future Outlook for Indonesia’s Agricultural Trade Regulations
As Indonesia continues modernizing its agricultural sector, new improvements are expected:
- Digitalization of licensing processes
- Stricter but clearer food safety rules
- Expansion of halal certification enforcement
- Alignment with international phytosanitary standards
- Enhanced export promotion policies
The long-term goal is to strengthen Indonesia’s position as a leading agricultural exporter while ensuring local food security.(*)
