Exporters intending to enter the Indonesian market must obtain the SNI Certificate. This certification is accessible to entities involved in the production, import, export, or distribution of goods in Indonesia, particularly targeting manufacturers, importers, and distributors. International businesses are obligated to secure SNI certification for their products to ensure legal entry into the Indonesian market.
The requirement for buyers to submit the supplier’s SNI (Standard Nasional Indonesia or Indonesian National Standard) to the ministry before making payment is a regulatory compliance measure set by the Indonesian government. In Indonesia, SNI comprises standards that products must meet to be sold in the country, encompassing various aspects such as quality, safety, and performance. Government regulations are imposed to ensure adherence to these standards, safeguarding consumers, promoting fair trade, and upholding overall product quality in the market.
Submitting the supplier’s SNI to the ministry before payment is part of the government’s initiative to oversee and enforce adherence to these standards. This guarantees that products being bought or sold satisfy essential quality and safety criteria. Notably, buyers are restricted from covering the cost of the SNI Certificate on behalf of the seller, as it may undermine the integrity of the regulatory framework. Neglecting to submit the supplier’s SNI could lead to penalties or the inability to finalize the transaction.
Effective March 7, 2025, the Ministry of Trade has entered into a strategic partnership with PT-Safe Haven Partners Indonesia, a trusted escrow service provider, to enhance financial security for suppliers undergoing the SNI (Standard Nasional Indonesia) certification process. Recognizing the challenges associated with exporting to Indonesia, this initiative ensures that both buyers and suppliers can engage with confidence, knowing that payments integral to the process are safeguarded.