Entering Indonesia’s beauty market requires more than good formulas and creative branding. To sell cosmetics legally in Indonesia, you must register with BPOM (Badan Pengawas Obat dan Makanan) to verify that your products are safe and compliant with local laws.
This article will guide you through the BPOM registration process, new regulation updates, and how to navigate it efficiently.
Why BPOM certification is important
Before selling cosmetics in Indonesia, obtaining BPOM registration is a legal requirement. This certification serves multiple purposes beyond regulatory compliance. Here’s why it matters:
- Legal Authorization: Selling unregistered cosmetics is illegal and may lead to fines or product seizures.
- Consumer Safety: BPOM verifies that ingredients are non-toxic, correctly labeled, and approved for public use.
- Brand Credibility: BPOM registration enhances brand trust and builds consumer confidence.
- Market Access: Only registered products are allowed in stores, e-commerce platforms, and beauty distributors.
Read more: Unveiling the prospect of the cosmetic industry in Indonesia
Which cosmetic products must be registered?
Any product intended for external use on the human body to clean, beautify, or alter appearance requires BPOM registration. This includes:
- Skin care products (e.g., moisturizers, serums, toners)
- Makeup (e.g., foundation, lipstick, mascara)
- Hair products (e.g., shampoo, conditioner, hair dye)
- Fragrances (e.g., perfumes, colognes)
- Nail products (e.g., polish, nail remover)
- Oral hygiene products (e.g., mouthwash, whitening products)
What’s Not Included?
Products with therapeutic claims (e.g., acne treatments with active ingredients) may fall under drug classifications, requiring a separate approval process.
Who should apply for BPOM cosmetic registration?
BPOM only allows specific entities to register cosmetics in Indonesia, including:
1. Local Indonesian Companies
Only Indonesian-registered companies (PT or PT PMA) with a valid business license (NIB) and relevant KBLI codes can apply.
2. Importers or Distributors
Foreign brands must appoint a local representative (importer or distributor) to register.
3. Third-Party Registration Services
Businesses can also work with reliable agencies that handle the entire BPOM registration process.
Foreign companies cannot register products directly. Successfully registering cosmetic products with BPOM Indonesia requires appointing a local legal entity.
Read more: Guide to choosing a company registration consultant in Indonesia
2025 BPOM registration updates for cosmetic products
BPOM introduced new rules under Regulation No. 18/2024 that apply to labeling, promoting, and advertising all cosmetic products in Indonesia.
All products must follow these new requirements by November 15, 2025. Key updates include:
Labeling Must Be Complete and Clear
- Labels must include: product name, usage instructions, ingredients, manufacturer details, NA number, net content, expiry date, warnings, 2D barcode, halal label (if applicable), and country of origin.
- All information must be in Indonesian.
Special Warnings Required
Products with certain ingredients (e.g., sunscreen, AHA, hydrogen peroxide) must carry specific warning texts.
Advertising Rules
- Only registered products with a NA number can be advertised.
- Ads must be in Indonesian. Foreign language is allowed, but only as a secondary element.
Read more: Brand trademark registration guide for cosmetics & fashion in Bali.
How to register your cosmetic products
Registering with BPOM can be straightforward if you follow the official process. Here’s how to complete your BPOM registration step-by-step.
1. Establish a Legal Entity in Indonesia
- Register a local PT or PT PMA.
- Obtain a Business Identification Number (NIB) and relevant KBLI codes.
2. Create a BPOM Account
Your company should register using BPOM’s e-Notifikasi system before proceeding with the registration process.
3. Gather Required Documents
- Certificate of Free Sale (CFS) from the country of origin
- Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certificate
- Product information file (PIF)
- Product formulation and label designs
- Letter of authorization (if using a distributor)
4. Application Submission
Once all documents are ready, log into the e-Notifikasi portal and complete all product details with the required documents.
5. BPOM Review and Evaluation
BPOM reviews your submission to verify ingredient safety, proper labeling, and regulatory compliance. Missing or incorrect information can result in processing delays.
6. Notification Number Approval
Upon approval, BPOM issues a notification number (NA number), authorizing your cosmetic product’s legal importation and distribution in Indonesia.
Read more: How to register your product for BPOM Indonesia
Simplify your BPOM Registration with InCorp
Managing BPOM registration alone can be challenging, especially with the latest regulations now in force. InCorp Indonesia (an Ascentium Company) offers a full-service cosmetic registration solution to make your product launch in Indonesia smooth and hassle-free. Our role is to simplify the complex BPOM registration process, giving you the confidence to enter Indonesia’s growing cosmetic market.
Our services include:
- Label & Document Preparation: We prepare and localize all required documents and labels to meet BPOM standards.
- BPOM Registration Handling: From submission to approval, our team manages the entire process so you can focus on growing your business.
- Optional Halal Certification: We assist in securing halal certification to boost consumer trust and meet future compliance needs.
Contact us today and let us streamline your entry into Indonesia’s growing cosmetic market.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the BPOM cosmetic registration process take?
Usually between 2 to 4 months, depending on product completeness and BPOM’s review timeline.
Do I need a local company to register cosmetics in Indonesia?
Yes. Only a legal entity in Indonesia (importer, distributor, or representative office) can submit the BPOM registration.
What documents are required for BPOM registration?
Key documents include ingredient list, product formula, label design, Certificate of Free Sale (CFS), and GMP certificate from the manufacturer.
How long is the BPOM cosmetic registration valid?
Registration is valid for 3 years and must be renewed before expiry to continue distribution.
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What you'll get
A prompt response to your inquiry
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Ongoing support for your business
Disclaimer
The information is provided by PT. Cekindo Business International (“InCorp Indonesia/ we”) for general purpose only and we make no representations or warranties of any kind.
We do not act as an authorized government or non-government provider for official documents and services, which is issued by the Government of the Republic of Indonesia or its appointed officials. We do not promote any official government document or services of the Government of the Republic of Indonesia, including but not limited to, business identifiers, health and welfare assistance programs and benefits, unclaimed tax rebate, electronic travel visa and authorization, passports in this website.
Verified by
Hotdo Nauli
Senior Legal & Delivery Manager at InCorp Indonesia
Hotdo heads the Legal and Delivery team at InCorp Indonesia, managing Product Registration, Legal Advisory, and Business Licensing. With over 8 years of experience, she focuses on compliance and integrity, ensuring all client operations align with Indonesian laws and regulatory standards, including contract reviews and sector-specific licenses. She is also a licensed advocate and a member of the Indonesian Advocates Association (PERADI).
