How to import products from Japan into Indonesia: Duties, documents and more

Japan is well-known for producing high-quality and unique products, making it a popular destination for importers around the world. 

Indonesia is one of the countries that imports Japanese products, including cars and vehicles, electronic devices, food, and even prized koi fish. According to the Observatory of Economic Complexity (OEC), Japan exported ¥162 billion worth of goods to Indonesia in 2025 with some of the top exports being parts and accessories for motor vehicles, commodities as well as flat-rolled steel1.

However, importing from Japan into Indonesia can be a complex process. Fortunately, it can be a simple and smooth process if you know what to look out for. Read on for our comprehensive guide on how to import products from Japan.

Taxes and duties involved when importing from Japan to Indonesia

When importing goods from Japan into Indonesia, businesses are subject to certain import tax and duty imposed by the Indonesian authorities. 

De £Minimis Rule 

Indonesia applies a de minimis threshold of US$3, meaning any imported goods valued above US$3 are subject to import duties and taxes. This low threshold means that any shipment from Japan above US$3 is subject to import duty.

CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) Duty 

CIF is an import duty that applies to all imports from Japan into Indonesia with a total product value above the De Minimis threshold. It is calculated based on the complete shipping value, including the total cost of your goods, freight, and insurance. CIF duty rates can range between 0% to 40% depending on the type of goods or products being shipped, with an average duty rate of 10.89%.

Tiered Duty System 

Indonesia also operates a tiered duty system, where import duty on products from Japan is applied at 0%, 15%, or 25% depending on the commodity. This tiered approach is designed to protect domestic industries, with higher rates typically applied to finished consumer goods and lower rates on raw materials or essential goods.

General Sales Tax and Sales Tax on Luxury Goods

Sales Tax is calculated based on the type or quantity of imported goods. An additional Sales Tax on Luxury Goods (STLG) of 10% to 75% of the sum of CIF value and duty may also be levied on selected products, such as luxury cars, luxury apparel, or alcoholic beverages.

Value-Added Tax (VAT) 

Most goods for import into Indonesia are subject to a standard VAT rate of 11%, in line with Indonesia's updated VAT rate effective January 20252. A reduced rate may apply to certain goods depending on CIF value and applicable duties.

Excise Duty 

Selected goods containing ethyl alcohol and tobacco are subject to Excise rates, which are imposed to regulate the import and consumption of these specific commodities.

Indonesia’s Free Trade Agreements with Japan and preferential rates 

Indonesia and Japan have entered into several Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) that reduce or eliminate import tax and import duty on certain Japanese products, making it easier for Indonesian businesses to import from Japan. Here's an overview of the key agreements that Indonesian importers can leverage.

Japan-Indonesia Economic Partnership Agreement (JIEPA)

The Japan-Indonesia Economic Partnership Agreement (JIEPA) was ratified in 2007 and covers a wide range of common Japanese imports into Indonesia including agricultural products, fisheries, textiles, automobiles, and automobile parts. Under the JIEPA, Indonesian importers can enjoy the elimination of selected customs duties or lowered duties rates for qualifying products.

ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership (AJCEP)

Indonesia and Japan are both also parties to the ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership (AJCEP), which aims to promote economic cooperation and reduce barriers of trade between Japan and ASEAN member countries. For businesses looking at how to import things from Japan, the AJCEP offers the elimination or reduction of selected tariffs on a broad range of goods, alongside other trade facilitation benefits.

Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)

Indonesia became a party to the RCEP, the world's largest free trade agreement, on 2 January 20233. The RCEP covers 15 economies, including Japan and all 10 ASEAN member states, and builds upon the foundation laid by the AJCEP. 

For Indonesian importers, the RCEP introduces additional tariff concessions on select product categories, improved trade-in-services provisions, and streamlined customs procedures that can further ease the process of importing from Japan with preferential import duty rates.

However, it's important to note that some products are still subject to high taxes and duties, even with the FTAs in place. For example, direct car imports from Japan can still be subject to significant taxes and duties, especially if the car is considered a luxury item. Therefore, it's important for Indonesian importers to research the specific taxes and duties for the product they wish to import before making any purchase decisions.

Prohibited and restricted items for import from Japan into Indonesia

Indonesia has strict shipping and customs regulations on what products can be imported into the country.

Prohibited items that cannot be imported into Indonesia include:

• Narcotics
• Pornographics and obscene materials
• Counterfeit goods 

Certain restricted goods and commodities may require additional licences or permits during the import process, such as:

• Firearms and ammunition 
• Live animals, including Japanese koi fish
• Live plants

DHL has also released a list of commodities not acceptable for transport by our carrier under any circumstances. When researching how to import things from Japan, you should do your due diligence to ensure they meet the Indonesian government’s regulations on prohibited and restricted items. 

Shipping documents and licences required for import from Japan to Indonesia

Having the right import documents and import paperwork prepared in advance is essential to avoiding customs delays when importing from Japan into Indonesia. Below is an overview of the key documents and licences you will need:

• Tax Identification Number (NPWP): A mandatory tax ID issued by the Indonesian tax authority, required for all importers conducting business in Indonesia.
• Single Business Number (NIB): A business registration number that serves as your official importer identity, issued through Indonesia's Online Single Submission (OSS) system.
• Bill of Lading (BL) or Airway Bill (AWB): A transport document issued by the carrier that serves as proof of shipment and outlines the details of the goods being shipped.
• Commercial Invoice: A document issued by the exporter detailing the goods, their value, and the terms of sale, used by customs authorities to assess applicable duties and taxes.
• Packing List: An itemised list of the contents of each package in the shipment, including weight and dimensions.
• Purchase Order (PO): A document confirming the transaction between the buyer and seller, often required as supporting import paperwork during customs clearance.
• Product-Specific Licences or Permits: Certain goods such as consumables, food products, or restricted items may require additional licences from relevant Indonesian authorities, such as BPOM (for food and pharmaceuticals) or the Ministry of Agriculture.

Find out more about in our guide on importing into Indonesia.

How DHL helps businesses have a smooth import process from Japan to Indonesia