If you’re considering Indonesia for Industrial Design protection, there’s one crucial fact you can’t afford to miss: Indonesia is not a member of the Hague Agreement. That means no international shortcut—and no room for error when it comes to choosing a reliable local partner.
For many IP holders, the Hague Agreement provides a streamlined route to securing design rights in multiple jurisdictions through the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). But Indonesia is not party to the Hague Agreement under either the 1999 Geneva Act or the 1960 Hague Act.
This means you cannot designate Indonesia via an international design application. All applications must be filed directly with Indonesia’s Directorate General of Intellectual Property (DGIP).
Local Agent Is Mandatory for Foreign Applicants
According to Article 1(6) of Ministerial Regulation No. 8 of 2016 on Procedures for Filing Industrial Designs:
“Foreign applicants must file their applications through an Intellectual Property Consultant registered with the DGIP.”
In other words, foreign entities may not file directly, either physically or online, regardless of whether the design was first filed in a Paris Convention country or not.
What Happens If You Ignore This?
Without a registered local consultant:
- Your application will be deemed incomplete and may be rejected.
- You risk missing the 6-month priority period under the Paris Convention due to procedural delays.
- Any errors in translation or classification may invalidate your application.
A local IP consultant ensures your application meets all administrative, language, and document legalization requirements.
Key Facts About Design Filing in Indonesia
| Topic | Details |
| International Route | Not available (not a Hague member) |
| Local Representation | Mandatory for foreign applicants |
| Term of Protection | 10 years from filing date (non-renewable) |
| Examination | Yes, for both formalities and substantive matters. |
| Opposition Period | 3 months from publication date |
| Governing Law | Law No. 31 of 2000 on Industrial Design |
Despite the absence of the Hague route and renewals, Indonesia’s design system is clear, relatively fast, and enforceable. It also operates in the context of Southeast Asia’s largest consumer market, with over 270 million people and growing enforcement capacity.
The DGIP recognizes priority rights under the Paris Convention (to which Indonesia is a party), so foreign applicants still benefit from global alignment, as long as they go through the right channel.
Need help filing your design in Indonesia? Book a free 15-minute call with a registered Industrial Design consultant:
📩 E-Mail : [email protected]
📞 Book a Call : +62 21 83793812
💬 WhatsApp : +62 812 87000 889
