Trade Minister Budi Santoso recently announced that the Indonesian government is cracking down on illegal importers to protect domestic industries and consumers. In a press conference on Thursday, Santoso stated that companies engaging in illegal imports could face severe sanctions such as shutdowns, license revocations, and bans on similar activities. He also emphasized that companies would be required to recall goods already in circulation without proper permits or procedures.
Santoso highlighted the government’s commitment to monitoring and enforcing regulations on illegal imports in collaboration with other agencies. He mentioned that strict monitoring is ongoing, with a focus on goods suspected of violating trade regulations. Additionally, the Trade Ministry is closely supervising all ports and airports serving as entry points for imported goods to prevent regulatory violations.
During a recent operation in Tangerang, Banten, the ministry seized over 1.68 million illegally imported products from China, valued at Rp18.8 billion. The products, imported by PT Asiaalum Trading Indonesia, were confiscated due to suspected breaches of import regulations. The seized items included bolts and nuts, gloves, miniature circuit breakers, and electric grinders, saws, and planers. Violations ranged from non-compliance with national product standards to the absence of manuals, warranty cards, and Indonesian-language labels on packaging, all of which are required by law.
Not really sure why this matters, but it seems like the Indonesian government means business when it comes to cracking down on illegal imports. Santoso’s announcement of strict sanctions and recall requirements for companies caught violating regulations sends a clear message. With the recent seizure of over 1.68 million illegally imported products, it’s evident that the government is actively monitoring entry points and taking enforcement actions. Let’s hope this crackdown continues to deter illegal importers and protect domestic industries and consumers.
