[Important Update] Trademark Certificate Required for Textile, Bag, & Footwear Imports in Indonesia

Effective March 10, 2024, in order to increase Trademark protection and control product quality on the market, Indonesian Ministry of Industry (MOI) has implemented a new regulation significantly impacting importers of textiles, textile products, bags, and footwear. This revision to MOI Regulation No. 5 of 2024 Article 23(3) concerns the procedures for issuing technical considerations for these imports.

Significant changes have occurred, including the addition of the following documents, which are mandatory when an importer submits a General Import Permit for Consumption (API-U).

1. Trademark Certificates issued by DGIP under the Ministry of Law and Human Rights of the Republic of Indonesia;
2. Proof of recordation the License Agreement, Sublicense, and/or Letter of Appointment from the Trademark Owner to the Authorized Representative; and
3. Letter of Appointment to Import from the Trademark Owner or Authorized Representative.

Affected Products

• Textiles: Fibers, threads, and fabrics;
• Textile Products: Carpets, other textile floor coverings, clothing, ready-made clothing accessories, and other finished textile goods;
• Bags: Suitcases, wallets, school bags, sports bags, handbags, and other bags;
• Footwear: Shoes, sandals, and moccasins.

The general import permit process remains in place, where the General Import Permit for Consumption (API-U) applies to businesses importing for trading purposes. The application process involves a General Importer Verification (VIU) followed by the MOI’s Technical Consideration (Pertek). Obtaining the API-U permit requires submitting the VIU report and Pertek results to the MOT.

Impact on Importers

This new requirement poses a challenge for importers who haven’t secured Trademark registration in Indonesia. The lengthy Trademark registration process, typically taking 1-2 years, necessitates immediate discussions with Trademark owners to obtain the necessary certificates and avoid delays in obtaining import permits.

Should you need further information regarding this regulation, including how to register a trademark in Indonesia, please contact us via email [email protected].