Importing animal products to Indonesia involves navigating a complex regulatory landscape that includes licensing, compliance with health standards, and adherence to import quotas. The Indonesian government strictly controls the importation of animal-based goods to protect public health, support local industries, and prevent the spread of animal diseases.
This guide outlines everything you need to know about legally importing animal products to Indonesia, including regulations, licensing procedures, product categories, and challenges you might face.
Understanding Indonesia’s Import Regulations for Animal Products
According to the Regulation of the Minister of Agriculture No. 42 of 2019 regarding the importation of carcasses, meat, offal, and their processed forms for food in Indonesia:
- Meat includes skeletal muscle from ruminant carcasses, such as prime cuts, secondary cuts, variety/fancy meats, manufactured meats, and meat from other ruminant species.
- Processed meat has undergone specific processing methods, either with or without added ingredients.
Types of Animal Products Subject to Import Regulations
Indonesia categorizes animal products under strict regulatory frameworks to ensure food safety, compliance with local laws, and disease prevention. Below are the main types of animal products that require import approval:
Fresh and Frozen Meat
- Includes beef, lamb, goat, poultry, and other ruminant meats.
- Must come from approved slaughterhouses that comply with Indonesian health and halal standards.
- Requires sanitary and phytosanitary certificates from the exporting country.
Processed Meat Products
- Covers sausages, canned meats, smoked meats, and cured meats.
- Subject to additional food safety inspections and labeling requirements.
Dairy Products
- Includes milk, cheese, butter, yogurt, and other dairy derivatives.
- Must meet pasteurization and microbiological safety standards.
- Requires certification from BPOM (Indonesia’s National Agency for Drug and Food Control).
Animal By-Products
- Includes gelatin, collagen, animal fats, and bone meal.
- Often used in food processing, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
- Requires proof that the products are free from disease contamination.
Eggs and Egg-Based Products
- Covers fresh eggs, powdered eggs, and processed egg products.
- Subject to quarantine and veterinary health certification.
Each category is subject to strict import licensing, documentation, and compliance checks. Importers must ensure that all animal products meet Indonesia’s health, safety, and halal requirements.
Licensing and Permits Required for Importing Animal Products
Importing animal products into Indonesia requires obtaining several permits to ensure compliance with government regulations. The process can be complex and involve multiple approvals from different authorities.
- Establishment Registration: Imported products must come from approved business units in eligible countries.
- Import Recommendation Letter (SRP): Issued by the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA), this is a crucial first step before applying for further permits.
- Import Approval: The Ministry of Trade (MOT) requires this to ensure that imported products meet Indonesia’s trade regulations.
- Distribution Permit (PB-UMKU): Mandatory for processed meat products obtained through BPOM.
- Import Certificate (SKI Post Border): A single-use document required for processed meat imports.
- Inspection & Quarantine: All animal products must undergo Indonesian quarantine procedures to meet safety and quality standards.
- Labeling Compliance: Products must have proper labeling in both Indonesian and English, including halal certification if applicable.
Challenges When Importing Animal Products to Indonesia
Importing animal products into Indonesia involves navigating various challenges, from strict regulations to bureaucratic processes. Understanding these potential obstacles can help businesses prepare and ensure a smoother importation process.
Complicated Licensing and Approvals
Importers must obtain permits from various government agencies, such as the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Trade, and BPOM. Errors or missing documents can result in shipment delays or rejections.
Strict Health and Safety Standards
Imported animal products must meet food safety and halal certification requirements. Products that fail to meet health standards can be rejected, fined, or destroyed.
Import Quotas and Trade Restrictions
Some products, like beef and poultry, have import quotas that limit the amount that can enter Indonesia. These rules change frequently, making planning difficult for importers.
Customs and Quarantine Delays
Shipments must go through customs clearance and quarantine checks, which can cause unexpected delays. Incorrect labeling or missing paperwork can result in products being held or rejected.
High and Unpredictable Costs
Import duties, VAT, and additional fees vary based on the product’s origin. Extra quarantine testing and documentation costs can make importing more expensive than expected.
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Let InCorp Handle Your Import Needs
Importing animal products into Indonesia has strict regulations, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Partnering with InCorp Indonesia (an Ascentium Company) ensures a smooth process from start to finish. Here’s how we can help:
- Licensing and Compliance: We handle all permits, approvals, and regulatory paperwork, ensuring that your animal products meet Indonesia’s strict import regulations immediately.
- Faster Customs Clearance: Our expertise in customs and quarantine procedures reduces the risk of shipment hold-ups, helping your products reach the market quickly and efficiently.
- Cost-Effective and Risk-Free Importing: Avoid unexpected fines, rejected shipments, and unnecessary storage fees.
Complete the form below to ensure full compliance with Indonesian import laws for your animal products.
Daris Salam
COO Indonesia at InCorp Indonesia
With more than 10 years of expertise in accounting and finance, Daris Salam dedicates his knowledge to consistently improving the performance of InCorp Indonesia and maintaining clients and partnerships.