By Carola Monintja
The Indonesian Government is serious about IP protection in the Republic. Promulgated on March 10, 2024, through the Revision of Regulation of the Ministry of Industry No. 5 of the Year 2024, the Indonesian Government now mandates a trademark registration certificate for all importers when they submit an import permit, particularly the General Import Permit for Consumption (API-U) or permits for importers who are importing goods for trading.
Key Takeaways
- New Trademark Rule For Importers – Indonesia now requires a valid trademark certificate when applying for an import permit such as API‑U.
- Mandatory Documents – importers must submit a trademark certificate, proof of license or appointment, and a letter of appointment to import.
- Specific Scope – these rules apply especially to API‑U holders importing fashion items like textiles, bags, and footwear.
- Practical Impact – businesses are urged to secure trademark registration early since the process takes around 8–10 months.
- Key Takeaway – strong trademark protection is now a critical prerequisite for smooth importation and compliance in Indonesia.
Protect Your Goods Today.
According to the regulation, it is mandatory for an importer submitting API-U to provide the following documents:
- A Trademark Certificate issued by DGIP or the IP Office of the Republic of Indonesia
- Evidence of a recorded License Agreement, Sublicense, and/or Letter of Appointment from the Trademark Owner to the Authorized Representative
- A Letter of Appointment to Import from the Trademark Owner or Authorized Representative
To be more specific, these documents are required by importers with API-U who are importing fashion products such as textiles, textile products, bags, and footwear.
Since the implementation of this regulation, it has become an additional requirement for business owners to diligently check their trademark protection in Indonesia. It is advisable to possess the trademark registration well before engaging in business, as the smooth process for trademark application for registration typically takes 8 to 10 months.
At KASS Indonesia, we are more than happy to assist and advise our clients not only on their trademarks but also on their entire IP portfolio in the Republic. Drop us an email at kass@kass.asia should you have further enquiries.