Indonesian Food Import Regulation: Professional Registration & Labeling Compliance
Introduction
In today’s competitive Indonesian food market, navigating the regulatory landscape is key to successful market entry. This article breaks down the essentials of Indonesian food import regulations, from BPOM certification and securing a Foreign Food Registration Number (ML), to meeting the new compulsory Halal certification standards. Discover how our expert services in formula review, label compliance review, product registration, and regulatory consultation can streamline your market entry and help you excel in Indonesia’s dynamic environment.
Indonesian Food Regulatory Framework
The BPOM (Indonesian Food and Drug Monitoring Agency) is the primary regulatory authority in Indonesia, overseeing food and pharmaceutical products as well as public health. All imported goods must obtain BPOM certification to secure a Foreign Food Registration Number (ML: Makanan Luar) and apply for an Entry Permit (SKI: Surat Keterangan Impor) for each shipment entering Indonesia.
Key Legislation in Indonesia
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Food Law No. 18/2012: This law forms the foundation of food regulation in Indonesia, covering a wide range of aspects related to food safety and quality.
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Law of the Republic of Indonesia Number 33 Year 2014 concerning Halal Product Assurance: This law ensures that all halal products meet strict standards, reflecting the importance of halal certification in the Indonesian market.
Compliance Obligations in Indonesia
Product Compliance
Food products imported into Indonesia must comply with the country’s safety and hygiene standards, including quality specifications, ingredient composition, and labeling.
Foreign Food Registration Number (ML)
To ensure products meet Indonesian safety, quality, and nutritional labeling requirements, all imported goods must obtain BPOM certification for the Foreign Food Registration Number (ML). The application process varies based on risk levels (high, medium, low):
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Low-risk foods: Minimally processed foods containing additives and animal derivatives that are still considered low-risk.
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Medium-risk foods: Processed foods that undergo sterilization, pasteurization, or irradiation. This category includes canned, frozen, or dehydrated products.
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High-risk foods: Foods targeting specific consumer groups with particular health conditions, such as infant, toddler, and pregnant women’s food.
Documents Required for Applying for the Foreign Food Registration Number (ML):
a) Importer Information: Name and address of the importer, brand name, and product category.
b) Product Details: Ingredients, product specifications, physical, chemical, and microbiological characteristics, packaging materials, storage conditions, batch numbers, and shelf life.
c) Production Process and Label Design: Information on the production process and the design of the product label.
d) Health Certificate/Free Sale Certificate: Health certificates or free sale certificates issued by the competent authority of the country of origin.
e) Analytical Certificates: Certificates analyzing heavy metals, microbiological contaminants, and chemical pollutants.
f) Nutritional and Quality Analysis Results: Results of nutritional and quality analyses.
Indonesian Halal Certification
The BPJPH (Halal Product Assurance Agency) is the regulatory body responsible for ensuring the halal status of products entering, circulating, and traded in Indonesia. Under the Halal Product Law (“Halal Law”), all consumer products, including food and beverages, and even related services, must undergo halal certification. While halal certification for food and beverage products was initially voluntary, it will become mandatory starting October 17, 2024. The certification process includes preliminary guidance and consultation, document submission, BPJPH registration, on-site/video audit, and certification issuance.
Our Services
Formula Review
We conduct a comprehensive review of your product formulas, including ingredients, additives, and nutritional fortifiers. Our experts assess whether these components comply with Indonesian regulations and provide detailed reports with recommendations to ensure your product formulations meet the required standards.
Label Compliance Review
Our team ensures your product labels meet Indonesian labeling requirements. We provide thorough reviews and reports to minimize the risk of non-compliance with labeling and advertising laws.
Product Registration
We assist with the entire registration process in Indonesia. Our services include guiding you through the preparation of necessary application materials, licenses, and business certificates; collecting and reviewing required documents; facilitating laboratory testing; and submitting applications while keeping you updated on the progress.
Regulatory Consultation
Need specific insights into Indonesian regulations? Our customized consulting services provide in-depth answers to your regulatory queries. We also offer regulatory training, compliance entry reports, and regulatory monitoring and early warning services tailored to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long is the Foreign Food Registration Number (ML) valid?
A: The ML is valid for five years and can be extended through renewal.
Q: What qualifications are required to apply for the Foreign Food Registration Number (ML)?
A: According to regulations, applicants must be local Indonesian manufacturers, importers, or distributors. Foreign manufacturers must apply through a local licensed entity (food manufacturer, importer, or distributor). The manufacturing supplier must also hold international certifications such as HACCP, ISO 22000, FSSC, or BRC (any one of the above) to be eligible for application.
Navigating food compliance in ASEAN? Explore our complete guides for key markets:
Malaysian Food Import Regulations
Philippines Food Import Regulations
Thailand Food Import Regulations
