Mastering the New Import Rules for Salt and Fishery Commodities in Indonesia: Regulation 19/2025 Exposed

Introduction

Indonesia, as a maritime nation, depends heavily on its coastal resources, with salt and fisheries playing central roles in the country’s economy. Despite being an archipelago with vast marine potential, Indonesia still imports large volumes of salt to meet industrial and consumption needs. At the same time, fishery commodities remain a vital sector not only for local food security but also for export revenues. This dual importance has made import regulations a sensitive yet crucial policy area.

In early 2025, the government introduced Minister of Trade Regulation No. 19/2025, which establishes new Import Rules for Salt and Fishery Commodities in Indonesia. The regulation is designed to address long-standing challenges: ensuring sufficient domestic supply, protecting local producers, and curbing loopholes that previously allowed oversupply or unregulated imports. With this update, businesses face stricter requirements, while the government aims to balance national interests with international trade commitments.

For companies operating in the salt and fisheries industries, compliance is no longer optional — it is the cornerstone of maintaining business continuity. Understanding the Import Rules for Salt and Fishery Commodities in Indonesia means not just securing the right permits but also anticipating quotas, exemptions, and reporting obligations. This article provides a detailed breakdown of Regulation 19/2025, covering the legal background, compliance steps, business impacts, and strategic tips to help importers navigate the shifting regulatory landscape.

Policy Background: Why Change Was Needed

Indonesia’s past experience with salt and fishery imports has revealed several weaknesses in regulatory oversight. Oversupply has often occurred because of loose import permits, leading to falling prices that hurt local producers. In some cases, smuggling and mislabeling of commodities slipped through weak monitoring systems, undermining the credibility of import governance. These issues made it clear that the framework for managing salt and fishery commodities required significant reform.

The domestic industry has long voiced concerns. Traditional salt farmers, especially in coastal regions like East Java and Madura, have struggled to compete with cheaper imported salt. Similarly, aquaculture businesses and small-scale fisheries have been at risk of losing market share when imported fishery products flood the local market. Without stronger regulations, these sectors face shrinking profit margins and reduced incentives to invest in production improvements.

Beyond the livelihoods of farmers and fishermen, food security is at stake. A fragile dependence on imports exposes Indonesia to global price fluctuations and trade disruptions. At the same time, the imbalance between import levels and local output has negatively affected the country’s trade balance. Recognizing these risks, the government introduced Minister of Trade Regulation No. 19/2025, which sets out new Import Rules for Salt and Fishery Commodities in Indonesia.

By implementing these rules, the government aims to establish a fairer system that safeguards domestic industries while ensuring adequate supply for consumers and industries. The Import Rules for Salt and Fishery Commodities in Indonesia are therefore not just about legal compliance — they are a strategic step toward sustainable economic and food security policies.

Scope of the Regulation — What’s Covered

Minister of Trade Regulation No. 19/2025 provides a comprehensive framework defining which commodities fall under the new rules. The scope is intentionally broad, ensuring that both salt and fishery imports are monitored with greater precision.

For salt, the regulation distinguishes between industrial salt, consumption salt, and iodized salt. Industrial salt, used primarily in manufacturing processes such as food processing, pharmaceuticals, and chemical industries, has historically represented the largest import volume due to limited local production capacity. Consumption salt, on the other hand, refers to table salt for everyday household use, while iodized salt is specifically intended to address public health concerns such as iodine deficiency. By separating these categories, the government ensures that import quotas and approvals are better aligned with actual domestic demand.

The regulation also covers a wide range of fishery commodities. These include fresh fish, frozen fish, aquaculture inputs such as feed and broodstock, as well as processed seafood like canned tuna or shrimp products. The detailed classification is designed to close loopholes that previously allowed certain products to bypass restrictions under vague or outdated categories.

A key feature of the new system is the use of the HS code annex, an internationally recognized classification of goods. The annex provides exact tariff codes for each salt and fishery product, removing ambiguity and simplifying enforcement at customs. This codification helps to reduce mislabeling, a frequent problem that had enabled importers to avoid stricter controls.

Overall, the Import Rules for Salt and Fishery Commodities in Indonesia reflect a more structured and transparent approach to defining the scope of regulated goods. By clarifying categories and attaching HS codes, the government aims to improve accountability, ensure fair competition for domestic producers, and maintain compliance with international trade standards. For both importers and local businesses, understanding the breadth of these classifications is essential to operating smoothly under the new regulatory framework.

Key Provisions of Regulation 19/2025

The Import Rules for Salt and Fishery Commodities in Indonesia under Minister of Trade Regulation No. 19/2025 introduce several core provisions aimed at balancing domestic needs with trade obligations. These provisions are designed to ensure that imports do not undermine local producers while maintaining fair access to essential raw materials and food supplies.

1. Pre-Import Authorization (PI)

One of the central mechanisms of the regulation is the requirement for Pre-Import Authorization (PI). Importers must obtain approval before shipments are made, with applications reviewed by the Ministry of Trade in coordination with sectoral ministries. This ensures that each import aligns with domestic production forecasts, preventing oversupply and protecting local salt farmers and fisheries from market shocks.

2. Quotas for Sensitive Items

The regulation establishes quotas for sensitive commodities such as industrial salt and certain high-value fish species. These quotas are set annually and adjusted based on domestic demand and production reports. For instance, while industrial salt may receive larger quotas due to limited local output, consumption salt and certain fishery products face tighter restrictions. This quota system is a cornerstone of the Import Rules for Salt and Fishery Commodities in Indonesia, giving the government a flexible tool to protect domestic industries.

3. Technical Verification (Sanitary and Phytosanitary)

To safeguard consumer health and the environment, all imports are subject to technical verification. This includes sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures to ensure that fishery products are free from harmful contaminants and diseases, while imported salt must meet purity and iodine standards. Verification is conducted both at the country of origin and at Indonesian entry points. By embedding SPS requirements into the regulatory framework, the government aims to improve food safety and align with World Trade Organization (WTO) commitments.

4. Reporting Obligations & Sanctions

Importers are now required to submit regular import realization reports detailing the volume, type, and HS code of products brought into the country. Failure to comply with reporting obligations can result in administrative sanctions such as suspension of import licenses, fines, or even revocation of trading rights. These enforcement mechanisms mark a significant tightening compared to previous rules.

5. Balancing Control and Accessibility

Overall, the Import Rules for Salt and Fishery Commodities in Indonesia combine control mechanisms with structured processes to ensure transparency. By requiring pre-import authorization, setting quotas, enforcing SPS verification, and mandating reporting, the government seeks to prevent abuse of the system while ensuring industries that depend on imported salt and fishery products still have access to necessary inputs.

In summary, Regulation 19/2025 is not merely a trade control tool—it is a governance framework that addresses food security, consumer safety, and the long-term sustainability of Indonesia’s salt and fishery sectors.

Exemptions and Special Economic Zones

While the Import Rules for Salt and Fishery Commodities in Indonesia under Regulation 19/2025 establish strict procedures, the government also recognizes the need for flexibility in specific cases. For this reason, the regulation outlines exemptions and special provisions to support research, industry innovation, and humanitarian needs.

1. Government and Research Imports

Imports carried out by government institutions, universities, or accredited research agencies may qualify for exemptions. For example, when marine research centers import specialized fishery inputs or laboratories require high-purity salt for scientific purposes, the process is simplified to avoid unnecessary delays. These exemptions are carefully monitored to prevent misuse, but they allow knowledge-based institutions to contribute to national development without being hindered by bureaucracy.

2. Bonded Zones and Special Economic Areas

The regulation provides tailored treatment for companies operating in Bonded Zones (Tempat Penimbunan Berikat/TPB) and Special Economic Zones (Kawasan Ekonomi Khusus/KEK). Within these zones, imports of salt and fishery commodities enjoy simplified licensing procedures and in some cases may not be subject to quotas. This is intended to boost Indonesia’s competitiveness as a regional hub for seafood processing and export-oriented industries. By linking the Import Rules for Salt and Fishery Commodities in Indonesia with investment-friendly policies in SEZs, the government aligns trade rules with broader economic strategy.

3. Emergency and Humanitarian Imports

Another important exemption applies during emergencies. In situations such as natural disasters, food shortages, or disease outbreaks in aquaculture, the Ministry of Trade may authorize expedited imports. Humanitarian agencies bringing in fishery products or iodized salt for relief efforts are granted priority clearance to ensure timely distribution to affected communities.

Overall, these exemptions highlight the balanced nature of the Import Rules for Salt and Fishery Commodities in Indonesia, which combine regulatory discipline with adaptive mechanisms to support research, investment, and humanitarian goals.

Compliance Process & Required Documentation

To operate legally under the new Import Rules for Salt and Fishery Commodities in Indonesia, businesses must follow a structured compliance process that begins with securing the proper legal identity. First, companies are required to have a valid Tax Identification Number (NPWP) and a Business Identification Number (NIB), both of which serve as the foundation for any trade-related licensing activity. Without these, importers cannot proceed to the next stages.

Step 1: Pre-Import Authorization (PI)

Importers must apply for Pre-Import Authorization (PI) from the Ministry of Trade. This document specifies the type, quantity, and HS codes of salt or fishery commodities that may be imported within a given period. Failure to obtain or renew a PI on time is one of the most common mistakes businesses make, often resulting in shipment delays at ports.

Step 2: Technical Verification

All shipments must be accompanied by technical verification certificates issued by accredited laboratories and independent surveyors. For salt, this may involve iodine content or purity tests, while fishery commodities undergo sanitary and phytosanitary checks. These verification steps ensure that imported goods meet Indonesia’s food safety and quality standards.

Step 3: Import Realization Reporting

After imports are completed, businesses must submit a report of their realized imports to the Ministry of Trade. This includes details of shipment volumes, supplier information, and verification certificates. Non-compliance with reporting obligations can lead to administrative sanctions or suspension of import licenses.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Companies often fail by underestimating documentation requirements, neglecting timely renewal of PI, or overlooking technical verification. Inaccuracies in HS code classification are another frequent issue that can trigger customs disputes.

By adhering strictly to the compliance process, importers can ensure smooth operations under the Import Rules for Salt and Fishery Commodities in Indonesia and minimize risks of regulatory penalties.

Impact on Businesses & Industry Stakeholders

The implementation of the new Import Rules for Salt and Fishery Commodities in Indonesia creates significant ripple effects across the supply chain, influencing both importers and domestic producers.

For importers, the regulation means higher compliance costs and longer lead times. The introduction of Pre-Import Authorization (PI), technical verification, and mandatory reporting adds layers of bureaucracy that require both time and financial investment. Importers may need to budget for surveyor fees, laboratory tests, and potential delays at customs while awaiting clearance. While this raises operational costs, it also reduces the risks of oversupply and uncontrolled imports, which previously created volatility in the domestic market.

For local producers, particularly salt farmers and small-scale aquaculture operators, the regulation provides a measure of protection. By limiting imports through quotas and stricter oversight, domestic products gain more room to compete in the local market. This creates opportunities for price stabilization and encourages investment in improving local production capacity. However, the challenge remains whether local industries can meet the demand for consistent quality and volume, especially in industrial and export-oriented sectors.

For export-oriented processors, such as seafood companies that rely on imported raw materials to maintain competitive pricing and quality standards, the regulation presents a different challenge. Stricter import controls may lead to higher input costs if domestic supplies cannot meet the same specifications. This could reduce competitiveness in global markets, where pricing and timely delivery are critical.

Overall, while the Import Rules for Salt and Fishery Commodities in Indonesia strengthen domestic industry protection and food security, they also create pressure points for importers and processors that depend on foreign inputs. Stakeholders will need to adapt by improving efficiency, strengthening supplier relationships, and investing in local production capabilities.

Strategic Tips for Importers

Adapting to the new Import Rules for Salt and Fishery Commodities in Indonesia requires importers to be proactive rather than reactive. The more prepared a company is, the smoother the compliance process will be.

The first step is early compliance planning. Importers should map out the documentation process well in advance, including obtaining a valid NPWP, NIB, and Pre-Import Authorization (PI). Timely preparation prevents last-minute delays that could disrupt supply chains, especially for commodities with short shelf lives like seafood.

Second, supplier diversification is crucial. Relying on a single overseas partner exposes businesses to significant risks if that supplier faces technical verification issues or fails to meet sanitary and phytosanitary requirements. Importers should build relationships with multiple suppliers across different regions to secure a consistent and compliant flow of goods.

Third, importers should leverage bonded zones (TPB) and Special Economic Zones (KEK) where possible. These zones often provide tax incentives, streamlined customs procedures, and certain exemptions under Regulation 19/2025. By utilizing these facilities, importers can reduce operational costs while ensuring smoother compliance.

Engaging legal and trade advisors is another best practice. The regulation is complex and involves multiple agencies, from the Ministry of Trade to the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries. Professional advisors can help interpret overlapping rules, prepare documentation, and mitigate risks of penalties or blacklisting.

Finally, companies should implement strong internal monitoring systems. Regular audits of import realization reports, payment of levies, and adherence to quotas ensure ongoing compliance.

By combining careful planning, diversification, and expert guidance, importers can turn the challenges of the Import Rules for Salt and Fishery Commodities in Indonesia into opportunities to build more resilient and competitive operations.

Future Outlook: What to Expect Next

The implementation of Minister of Trade Regulation 19/2025 marks a significant milestone in Indonesia’s trade governance, but the regulatory landscape is expected to continue evolving. Businesses should anticipate potential revisions and additional guidance notes from the Ministry of Trade and related agencies as the rules are tested in practice. These updates may clarify technical requirements, expand on reporting formats, or adjust compliance deadlines based on industry feedback.

One key area of development is the integration with OSS (Online Single Submission) and customs systems. The government has been actively digitizing trade licensing and monitoring, and it is likely that future updates will create a more seamless link between import permits, customs declarations, and real-time quota tracking. For importers, this means fewer manual submissions but also less room for error, as data discrepancies will be flagged more quickly.

Another aspect to monitor is quota adjustments. Quotas for salt and fishery products are highly sensitive to domestic production performance, seasonal patterns, and market demand. The government has signaled that it will periodically review and adjust allocations, meaning businesses must remain agile and stay informed about policy announcements.

Overall, while the Import Rules for Salt and Fishery Commodities in Indonesia provide more structure and protection for local industries, the future will likely bring refinements to balance domestic needs with international trade dynamics. Importers should prepare for a regulatory environment that is increasingly digital, closely monitored, and adaptive to market conditions.