Expanding your business into Indonesia, especially in East Java, offers immense potential. Securing the PI import approval (Persetujuan Impor) is critical for companies looking to import goods.
Whether you are a startup or an established company investing in Indonesia, understanding the PI approval process in Surabaya helps streamline operations, avoid legal issues, and empower you to capitalize on one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing economies.
Overview of import approval
Import approval (Persetujuan Impor) is a formal document allowing businesses to import certain goods into Indonesia, mainly restricted or regulated items.
This document helps ensure that imported goods meet national rules, safety standards, and quality checks.
Why is Import Approval Important?
Getting PI import is essential for several reasons:
- Legal Compliance: Importing without approval can lead to penalties or blocked shipments.
- Faster Customs Process: Proper documents help avoid delays and keep your business running smoothly.
- Better Business Reputation: It shows that your company follows the rules, which builds trust in the Indonesian markets.
Import approval is not only necessary but crucial if you are investing in East Java or planning to grow your business in Indonesia.
Import Approval vs. Import Permit: Key differences
While import approval (PI import) and permits are necessary for importing goods into Indonesia, they serve distinct purposes. Misunderstanding them can lead to delays, fines, or customs issues. Here are the key differences:
Purpose
- Import Approval: Product-specific, mandatory for importing controlled or restricted items identified by HS Codes, such as machinery, health products, or chemicals.
- Import Permit: Baseline legal requirement for all importers to conduct import activities, regardless of the product.
Validity Period
- Import Approvals: Valid for specific periods (e.g., 6 months) or until the assigned shipment quota is reached.
- Import Permits: Valid for a longer duration and must be renewed annually.
Read more: Navigating the landscape of Indonesian imports
Types of Import Approval
PI import are classified into two types based on their validity and the import commodities. Below is the breakdown:
Duration and Validity of Import Approval
- API‑P (Import Approval – Producer): Valid for 1 year from the date of issuance, and businesses can apply for renewal if needed.
- API‑U (Import Approval – Utilization): Typically valid for 6 months, calculated from its issuance date.
Authorities may grant extensions or quotas depending on industry demands and BKPM import regulation updates.
Commodity Categories
Import approval varies across different commodities. Some specific examples include:
| Commodity Type | Import Approval Type |
| Electronics (cell phones, tablets, etc.) | Requires an SDPPI certificate, a product registration from the industry ministry, plus a notarized appointment letter |
| Iron, steel, and derivatives | Needs technical considerations, mill test certification, or commodity balance documents |
| Apparel, footwear, tires | Apparel & accessories: Need stock list, distributor appointment, and origin certificate. Footwear: RKIB valid for 1 year. Tires: SNI, NPB, and appointment letter |
| Other regulated machinery and products | May require specific government body recommendations. |
Understanding the different types of import approval can help your business operate efficiently, particularly when investing in East Java and targeting the whole Asian market.
Guide to Doing Business in Surabaya
Obtaining Import Approval Requirements in East Java:
Before requesting import approval, you must secure these mandatory documents and registrations:
- Nomor Induk Berusaha (NIB) earned via OSS (Online Single Submission), which now also functions as your Angka Pengenal Importir (API)—either API‑U (General) or API‑P (Producer), depending on whether you are trading or using imports for production.
- Company Legal Documents, such as business registration, NPWP, and domicile certificate, to prove legitimacy.
Here is the step-by-step guide to obtain your import approval:
1. NIB Registration
Register your business through OSS to receive your NIB and essential import license (API).
2. Prepare Necessary Documents
Gather standard import documentation:
- Commercial/pro forma invoice
- Packing list
- Certificate of Origin (COO)
- Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
- Other sector-specific certificates (e.g., health, safety, quotas)
3. Submit PI Import Approval Request
Submit your application via the integrated online portal to the Ministry of Trade or the relevant ministry, depending on the commodity type. Include:
- Application letter
- NIB (API)
- Detailed info about goods (type, quantity, origin, HS Code)
4. Commodity Balance Review (Neraca Komoditas)
Authorities assess supply-demand data to ensure imported items do not harm the domestic market. Approval depends on this balance.
5. Receive PI Import Approval Document
If approved, you will receive a formal import approval document containing:
- Approval number and validity period
- Importer identity, HS Code, quantity, origin, and port details
This import approval can be presented alongside customs documents when inspecting goods and assessing duty based on the HS Code.
Read more: 5 Common import issues in Surabaya: What businesses need to know
Simplify importing to East Java with InCorp
Importing into Indonesia can be complex—from obtaining an import permit to completing the PI approval process in Surabaya. Every detail matters.
InCorp Indonesia (an Ascentium company) offers end-to-end solutions for businesses entering East Java’s fast-growing market. Our expert services include facilitating the Import Permit Application process, acting as the Importer of Record (IOR) for businesses that want to import without establishing a local entity, and providing comprehensive support throughout the import approval process.
- Import Permit Application: We streamline the API process through Indonesia’s OSS system, ensuring fast and compliant registration.
- Importer of Record (IOR): Import without establishing a local entity. Ideal for market testing, pilot shipments, or scaling operations.
- PI Import Advisory: Stay updated with the latest BKPM import regulation and document requirements.
Ready to expand your business in East Java? Contact us today and take advantage of one of Indonesia’s most dynamic import-export hubs.
Let InCorp handle the complexities of the import approval process, so you can focus on growing your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Import Approval required for all imported goods?
No. Import Approval (PI) is only required for specific regulated or restricted goods listed under certain HS Codes. Common categories include electronics, health products, machinery, and raw materials.
Can a foreign company apply for Import Approval without a local entity?
No. Only companies registered in Indonesia with a valid NIB/API can apply for PI. However, foreign businesses can import legally using an Importer of Record (IOR) service.
How long does it take to obtain Import Approval?
It typically takes 5–15 business days after submission, depending on the commodity type, document completeness, and ministry response time.
Does Import Approval cover multiple shipments or just one?
It depends on the type of PI issued. Some are shipment-specific, while others can be valid for multiple shipments within the approval’s validity period.
Can Import Approval be amended or transferred?
No. PI is non-transferable and cannot be amended after issuance. If there are changes in quantity, HS Code, or supplier, a new application is required.
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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).
