Understanding IOR for Cosmetics Import Indonesia: Key Legal Documents You Need

Corporate Secretary Service Indonesia – If you’re planning to tap into Indonesia’s booming beauty market, it’s crucial to understand the IOR for cosmetics import Indonesia and what legal documents you’ll need to bring your products into the country compliantly. With growing demand for skincare and makeup, opportunities for foreign brands are bigger than ever, but only for those prepared to navigate Indonesia’s strict regulatory landscape.

At PortCorp, we often guide international brands and distributors through the maze of paperwork required for cosmetics imports. To give you a clearer picture, here’s a practical look at the three main legal documents you’ll need to secure before your products ever reach Indonesian shelves.

1. Importer of Record (IOR) & Importer Identification

The first requirement under the IOR for cosmetics import Indonesia is having a legitimate importer status. In Indonesia, this is formalized through an Importer Identification Number (API), which today is handled via a Business Identification Number (NIB) issued under the OSS (Online Single Submission) system.

This shift is the result of Indonesia’s risk-based licensing approach, regulated by Government Regulation No. 5 of 2021. With an NIB, your business is automatically recognized as an importer (API) and gets a customs ID valid for as long as your company remains operational, no need to renew every few years like under the old system.

So whether you’re a foreign brand partnering with a local distributor or setting up your own entity, securing this importer status is your essential first step. Without it, your goods can’t legally enter Indonesian ports.

2. Cosmetics Notification (Distribution Permit)

The next key requirement tied to IOR for cosmetics import Indonesia is a cosmetics distribution permit, often referred to as a “notification.” This isn’t optional, under BPOM Regulation No. 27 of 2022 and the specific guidelines in BPOM Regulation No. 21 of 2022, all cosmetic products imported into Indonesia must have this notification approval.

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Here’s a brief rundown of what you’ll need:

• A declaration from your company’s directors stating they have no criminal record in the cosmetics sector.
• A recommendation letter from the local BPOM Technical Unit head.
• An agency appointment letter valid for at least six more months, in Indonesian or English.
• A notarized contract with the overseas manufacturer.
• A Certificate of Free Sale (CFS) from an authorized agency in the country of origin (for products outside ASEAN), or GMP certification for ASEAN-made goods.

Essentially, this ensures your products meet Indonesian safety standards and that there’s a clear line of responsibility for quality once your cosmetics hit the local market.

3. Import Certificate (SKI)

Finally, before your goods clear customs, you’ll need an Import Certificate (SKI) issued by BPOM. For cosmetics, this means a Post-Border SKI, which covers quasi-drugs, supplements, processed foods, and of course, cosmetics.

The process typically involves:

1. Obtaining your NIB via OSS.
2. Registering to access BPOM’s online SKI Post-Border system (or through Indonesia’s National Single Window).
3. Uploading required documents and tracking your approval.
4. If using a representative, providing a notarized power of attorney.

Only after receiving this SKI can your cosmetics be officially released from customs and distributed in Indonesia.

In short, understanding the IOR for cosmetics import Indonesia, from securing your NIB/API, to obtaining a distribution notification, to finalizing your SKI, is non-negotiable if you want smooth, compliant entry into this high-growth market. At PortCorp, we specialize in helping international brands meet these requirements without the usual headaches, so you can focus on building your brand while we handle the complexities. If you’d like to learn how we can assist your business, we’re just a message away.

So, don’t worry about developing your business by setting up a company in Indonesia, because Portcorp is here as a solution for your business, also when you need IOR for cosmetics import Indonesia. Portcorp is your comprehensive corporate secretary service in Indonesia. With our presence, you can get a dedicated company secretary to support you to what you need. Our company secretaries will track deadlines and file paperwork so your business keeps running smoothly. Contact us now on +6221-5020-8090 for your business succeed in the future!