Import License in Indonesia (2026 Guide): API-U, API-P, NIB Requirements and Process

An import license in Indonesia is not a standalone document. For business imports, a company’s Nomor Induk Berusaha (NIB) functions as its importer identification through either API-U or API-P, while certain products may require additional approvals.

Companies should confirm the correct API classification and product requirements before the first shipment. An incorrect setup can lead to customs issues, additional licensing requirements, or delays in bringing goods into Indonesia.

Indonesia’s current import framework is primarily governed by Permendag 16/2025, as amended by Permendag 37/2025 and Permendag 18/2026, together with commodity-specific import regulations.

Key Takeaways

• An import license in Indonesia is generally reflected through the API-U or API-P classification attached to the company’s NIB.
• API-U applies to imports intended for trading or transfer, while API-P applies to goods imported for the company’s own production or business activities.
• Import requirements depend on the HS code and type of goods, which may trigger additional approvals.
• API-U may be changed to API-P subject to applicable conditions.
• Companies should confirm their import structure before arranging shipment.

Import License in Indonesia: The Overview

Item	Detail
Core identifier	NIB (Nomor Induk Berusaha) functioning as API
General trading classification	API-U — for goods imported to be traded or transferred
Own-use/production classification	API-P — for goods used by the importer for its own production or business activities
Current legal basis	Permendag 16/2025 as amended, commodity-specific import regulations, and PP 28/2025
Registering system	OSS
Customs access	Integrated with the NIB
API conversion	API-U → API-P may be permitted subject to applicable conditions
Ongoing compliance	Importers must fulfil applicable licensing and reporting requirements

What is an Import License in Indonesia?

An import license allows a business to bring goods into Indonesian customs territory in accordance with its approved activities.

For business imports, the company’s NIB functions as an API, with the appropriate classification depending on whether the imported goods will be traded or used for the company’s own activities.

The NIB/API does not automatically allow every product to be imported. Additional licenses, technical approvals, inspections, or product registrations may still apply depending on the goods and HS code.

What is the Difference Between API-U and API-P?

API-U (Angka Pengenal Importir – Umum) applies to companies importing goods for trading or transfer in Indonesia. API-P (Angka Pengenal Importir – Produsen) applies to companies that import goods for their own production or business activities, including raw materials, capital goods, and production-support items.

Goods imported under API-P generally cannot be used for normal commercial resale. Companies should therefore select the API type that matches their actual business model. API-U may be changed to API-P subject to applicable regulatory conditions.

READ MORE:

• Securing Import License in Indonesia via OSS 
• Export and Import License in Indonesia: The Process 
• PKRT Registration for Imported Household Products in Indonesia

Which Regulations Govern Import Licensing in Indonesia in 2026?

Indonesia’s import licensing framework combines general import rules with product-specific requirements. The regulations that apply depend on the importer’s business activities, the type of goods being imported, and the relevant HS code. Understanding the main regulatory framework helps companies identify which licenses and approvals may be required before shipment.

Permendag 16/2025 and General Import Policy Framework

Indonesia’s general import policy is governed by Permendag 16/2025 on Import Policy and Regulation, as amended by Permendag 37/2025 and Permendag 18/2026. The regulation covers the general framework for import licensing, including NIB/API requirements and related import approvals.

Indonesia’s wider risk-based business licensing framework operates under PP 28/2025 through OSS.

8 Commodity-Cluster Under Permendag

Indonesia also applies commodity-specific regulations under Permendag 17–24/2025, covering categories such as:

• Permendag 17/2025 — Textiles and textile products
• Permendag 18/2025 — Agricultural and livestock goods (amended by Permendag 38/2025 and Permendag 11/2026)
• Permendag 19/2025 — Salt and fishery commodities
• Permendag 20/2025 — Chemicals, hazardous materials, and mining commodities
• Permendag 21/2025 — Electronics and telematics goods
• Permendag 22/2025 — Specific industrial goods
• Permendag 23/2025 — Consumer goods
• Permendag 24/2025 — Used (non-new) goods and non-hazardous waste

Depending on the product and HS code, companies may need additional requirements such as Persetujuan Impor (import approval), Laporan Surveyor (surveyor report), and Pertimbangan Teknis (technical consideration). Importers should therefore assess the applicable commodity rules before shipment.

Separately, Permendag 9/2026 introduced controls on imported goods suspected of being produced with forced labour, adding another compliance consideration for certain international supply chains.

Who Needs an Import License to Operate in Indonesia?

An Indonesian entity importing goods for commercial trading or its own business activities generally needs an NIB with the appropriate API classification. This commonly includes distributors, trading companies, manufacturers, and PT PMA companies conducting import activities.

Foreign companies without their own Indonesian import structure may instead work with an appropriately licensed Indonesian importer.

How Do You Obtain an Import License in Indonesia?

Obtaining an import license starts with the right business setup, followed by NIB registration and any product-specific approvals.

• Establish the appropriate Indonesian business entity. The company’s KBLI should support its intended business activities.
• Obtain the company’s tax ID (NPWP) for OSS registration.
• Register the NIB through OSS with the appropriate API classification.
• Identify product-specific requirements based on the goods and HS code.
• Confirm customs readiness and ensure licensing information matches the planned shipment.
• Maintain ongoing compliance with applicable reporting and licensing requirements.

How Long Does the Import Licensing Process Take?

The NIB and API registration process is generally handled electronically through OSS. However, the overall timeline depends on whether the imported products require additional licenses or technical approvals.

Restricted or regulated goods may require Persetujuan Impor, Laporan Surveyor, SNI, BPOM registration, or other sector-specific approvals, which can extend the process.

What Documents Are Required?

Requirements vary depending on the business and product, but commonly include:

• Deed of Establishment and Articles of Association
• NPWP
• NIB with the appropriate API classification
• Business activity and product information
• Commercial and shipment documents
• Product-specific licenses or approvals, where required

The exact requirements should be confirmed based on the relevant HS code and product category.

What are the Import Taxes and Duties in Indonesia?

Import costs depend on the product, HS code, customs value, API status, and any applicable trade agreement.

The main charges may include:

• Customs Duty: Determined by the applicable HS code and tariff.
• VAT (PPN): The statutory rate is 12%, while most non-luxury imports are effectively subject to 11% under the applicable taxable-base mechanism.
• PPh Pasal 22: The applicable rate depends on the goods and importer status, with 2.5% commonly applying to general imports using API.

Preferential customs tariffs may also apply where the goods qualify under an applicable free trade agreement.

READ MORE:

• Why You Need a Product License Holder to Import to Indonesia 
• HS Code Indonesia: Obtain Import Permits on Time 
• Import Restructuring: The Key to Smooth Trade in Indonesia

What Goods are Restricted or Prohibited From Import?

Indonesia distinguishes between restricted goods, which may be imported when specific requirements are fulfilled, and prohibited goods, which generally cannot be imported. Restricted products may require import approvals, technical verification, surveyor reports, or licenses from the relevant authority.

Prohibited imports are governed separately under Permendag 47/2025. Since these requirements are commonly determined by HS code, companies should confirm the regulatory status of their goods before shipment.

What Happens If a Company Imports Without the Correct License?

Importing without the correct API classification or required product approvals can prevent goods from clearing customs and may result in administrative sanctions. Compliance issues can also arise when a company’s actual activities do not match its API classification.

Companies should therefore confirm that their NIB, API, import approvals, and product requirements are aligned before shipment.

Can a Foreign Company Use an Importer of Record Instead?

Yes. A foreign company without its own Indonesian import structure may work with a properly licensed Indonesian importer.

The Indonesian importer must hold the required NIB/API and any additional licenses applicable to the goods. This can be suitable for companies entering the Indonesian market, importing occasionally, or preparing their own long-term import structure.

The arrangement should clearly define responsibilities for customs, licensing, taxes, product approvals, and distribution.

When Should a Company Seek Professional Support?

Import licensing becomes more complex when a company is establishing a new PT PMA, importing regulated products, handling multiple product categories, or changing its API classification.

Companies need to ensure that their business activities, API type, HS codes, import approvals, and product registrations are aligned before shipment.

InCorp Indonesia (an Ascentium Company) supports businesses with import licensing setup, product classification, and ongoing import compliance. For regulated products, support can also include product registration, BPOM registration, halal certification, and related approvals required before entry into the Indonesian market.

InCorp Can Assist You Prepare the Right Import Setup

InCorp Indonesia (an Ascentium Company) can support your import activities with:

• Import licensing and NIB/API setup
• HS code and product classification review
• Import approval and regulatory requirement assessment
• Product registration for regulated goods
• Ongoing import compliance support

Talk to our experts to prepare the right import setup before shipment. Fill out the form below for a free initial consultation.

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