Step-by-step guide on importing a mobile phone in Indonesia

Indonesia has one of the fastest-growing mobile phone markets in the world, driven by a tech-savvy population. With mobile phone users reaching over 168 million in 2023, it is one of the largest smartphone markets worldwide after China, India, and the United States, according to Statista. 

However, despite the industry's growth, importing mobile phones to Indonesia has become increasingly complex due to government regulations, such as IMEI registrations and local phone component requirements. To help you navigate this process, this guide provides key insights into the mobile phone import process in Indonesia.

Understanding Indonesia’s strict regulations in mobile phone distribution

To combat the unauthorized phone trade and support the growth of Indonesia’s mobile phone manufacturing sector, the government has implemented strict regulations on the distribution and use of imported mobile phones. Two key regulations that importers must comply with are IMEI registration and Tingkat Komponen Dalam Negeri (TKDN).

If you plan to import mobile phones into Indonesia, understanding these regulations is crucial to ensuring your device functions properly and avoiding penalties for unauthorized distribution.

What is IMEI?

The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique serial number assigned to every mobile device. This identifier contains essential details about the phone, including its brand, model, release year, and technical specifications, eliminating the need for a physical inspection.

Why do you need to register your IMEI in Indonesia?

The Indonesian government introduced IMEI registration in October 2020 to regulate phone trade within the country. Under this system, all imported mobile phones must be registered digitally to gain access to local mobile networks. Therefore, any device brought into Indonesia must be registered with Indonesian Customs or the Ministry of Industry to ensure full functionality. 

How to register a mobile phone’s IMEI with the Ministry of Industry

This is how you can register your imported mobile phones with the Ministry of Industry:

1. Online registration

Visit the Indonesian Ministry of Industry’s official portal to begin the IMEI registration process for your imported mobile phone.

2. Submit required details

You must provide the following:

• Full name of importer
• Identification number of importer
• Flight, shipping, or land transport number
• Date of arrival in Indonesia
• Taxpayer Identification Number (NPWP) (if applicable)
• Number of imported devices
• Type, brand, and model of the mobile phone
• IMEI number of the device

3. Obtain IMEI registration certificate

Once your submission is complete, you will receive an IMEI registration certificate, which may be required for customs clearance.

What happens when you don’t have the phone’s IMEI registered?

Failing to register an imported phone’s IMEI means it won’t be recognized by Indonesian mobile networks, making it unusable for calls, texts, or data. This could also impact mobile phone distributors, as unregistered devices cannot legally function within the country.

What is the Tingkat Komponen Dalam Negeri (TKDN)?

One of the key challenges for foreign mobile phone manufacturers entering the Indonesian market is Tingkat Komponen Dalam Negeri (TKDN), or the Domestic Component Level requirement. Under this regulation, smartphones must contain at least 35% locally sourced components before they can be legally sold and distributed in Indonesia. 

Implemented to boost Indonesia’s competitiveness in the tech sector, TKDN aims to support national economic growth and create opportunities for local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). However, this requirement can be a barrier for foreign manufacturers that lack an established presence or local partnerships in Indonesia. 

Before expanding into the Indonesian market, manufacturers and exporters must meet the government’s requirements to ensure compliance and avoid distribution challenges or potential fines.

How to import mobile phones into Indonesia

Importing mobile phones into Indonesia requires careful planning and compliance with government regulations. Businesses can get started by following these steps:

1. Check the HS Code for mobile phones

The Harmonized System (HS) code classifies imported goods for tax and regulatory purposes. Before shipping, ensure that your mobile phone is correctly categorized to avoid customs issues. The HS Codes of smartphones and other mobile devices are as follows:

8517.13.00: Smartphones

8517.14.00: Other mobile phones

2. Understand import regulations

Mobile phones imported into Indonesia must comply with government regulations, including IMEI registration and Tingkat Komponen Dalam Negeri (TKDN) requirements. Failure to meet these standards could result in network restrictions, a denial of registration, or even potential penalties.

3. Determine import duties and taxes

When importing goods into Indonesia, it’s crucial to understand the applicable duties, taxes, and customs rules to avoid unexpected costs. To help you with your calculations, you should know the key charges associated with importing mobile phones and other products. According to In Corp, import duties and taxes for Indonesia as of 2024 include:

• Import duty: A standard 10% duty is imposed on the declared value of imported goods.
• Value-Added Tax (VAT):  A 11% VAT applies to the total shipment value.
• Income tax: The rate depends on whether the importer has an Indonesian Tax Identification Number (NPWP):
  • 10% tax if the business has an NPWP.
  • 20% tax if an NPWP is not provided.
• Shipments valued over US$1,500: If the shipment's total value exceeds US$1,500, standard import taxes will be calculated based on the Harmonized System (HS) Code assigned to the product. These rates differ depending on the classification, so it’s important to check the Indonesian customs database for precise tax calculations.

Check out DHL Express’s shipping cost calculator for a clearer view of your overall expenses. 

4. Choose a shipping provider

Selecting a trusted logistics partner ensures a seamless shipping process. Consider shipping with DHL Express, as our international shipping provides efficient import and export solutions, customs assistance, and reliable delivery services to Indonesia.

5. Obtain necessary documentation

To ensure a smooth customs clearance when importing mobile phones into Indonesia, importers must prepare the necessary documentation. Here are the key documents required:

• Commercial invoice: The commercial invoice details the transaction, including the product description, quantity, and declared value.
• Packing list: This specifies the contents, dimensions, and weight of the shipment.
• Air Waybill (AWB): It acts as proof of shipment and is required for tracking and customs clearance.
• IMEI registration certificate: It serves as proof that the imported mobile phones are registered with the Indonesian Ministry of Industry to comply with IMEI regulations.
• HS Code Classification: Proper Harmonized System (HS) Code for mobile phones must be declared for accurate tax assessment.
• Taxpayer Identification Number (NPWP): This is required for businesses importing goods, as it helps determine the applicable income tax rate.

6. Customs clearance

Upon arrival, Indonesian customs officials will inspect the shipment. Ensuring that all documentation is accurate and complete can help avoid delays, additional fees, or potential shipment holds.

Tips for smooth importing

Importing mobile phones into Indonesia requires careful planning, compliance with regulations, and financial preparation to avoid delays and additional costs. To guide you, these are some expert tips to ensure a seamless import process:

• Research Thoroughly: Before importing, stay updated on Indonesia’s import regulations, customs procedures, and the latest policy changes regarding mobile phone imports. The government frequently updates rules related to IMEI registration, HS codes, and tax rates, which can impact your shipment. Checking official sources such as Indonesia’s Directorate General of Customs and Excise helps ensure you comply with current requirements.
• Engage a Customs Broker: A licensed customs broker can help you navigate the complex documentation and compliance requirements for importing mobile phones. They ensure that your paperwork, including the HS code classification, import permits, and IMEI registration, is correctly submitted. Partnering with a customs expert reduces the risk of shipment delays, fines, or confiscation.
• Plan for Import Costs: Before proceeding with your shipment, calculate all import duties, taxes, and fees to avoid unexpected expenses. Proper cost estimation helps in budgeting and ensures smooth customs clearance without financial surprises.
• Ensure IMEI registration: Ensure that your mobile phone’s IMEI is registered with the Indonesian Ministry of Industry to comply with local regulations. If you intend to sell or distribute mobile phones in Indonesia, this step is essential, as unregistered IMEIs may be blocked from accessing local networks. Failure to register could lead to connectivity issues for consumers, affecting their ability to make calls, send messages, or use mobile data.

Work with DHL Express to help you with importing mobile phones to Indonesia

To ensure the import process of mobile phones into Indonesia is seamless and hassle-free, partnering with an experienced international shipping provider is crucial. DHL Express offers extensive expertise in global logistics, helping businesses comply with Indonesian import laws while ensuring seamless shipping and delivery.

With a strong international network and reliable import and export services, DHL Express simplifies the shipping process for mobile phone manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. Our comprehensive solutions include customs clearance assistance, real-time tracking, and expert guidance on duties, taxes, and regulatory compliance—allowing you to focus on your business while our team handles the logistics.

Open a business account with us today to get started.