Tangerang, IDN Times - On Saturday, April 19, 2025, Badan Karantina Indonesia (Barantin) through Balai Karantina Hewan, Ikan dan Tumbuhan Banten (Karantina Banten) certified 100 kilograms of Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) worth Rp50 million for export to India. This export marks the first of its kind to India.
Head of Karantina Banten, Duma Sari, emphasized that the export of plants and plant products must be accompanied by a Phytosanitary Certificate (PC) in accordance with UU Nomor 21 Tahun 2019 and PP Nomor 29 Tahun 2023. “All commodities sent abroad must meet the technical and administrative requirements of the destination country and be free from plant quarantine pests,” she stated.
According to Duma, the export of kratom can occur in two forms: as powder and crushed leaves, with sizes greater than 30 mesh or less than or equal to 600 microns, following the guidelines set out in Peraturan Menteri Perdagangan Nomor 21 Tahun 2024. The export process requires several certifications, including Eksportir Terdaftar (ET), Persetujuan Ekspor (PE), and Laporan Surveyor (LS).
"After thorough inspection and certification, the 100 kilograms of kratom were deemed suitable for export," Duma confirmed. She also highlighted the importance of biosecurity and biosafety measures in the quarantine process, which are designed to protect the health of animals, plants, and the environment from pests and diseases.
In addition, the certification for kratom exports can only be provided after receiving an Import Permit or other official documents from the authorities in the destination country, confirming that kratom is not a prohibited commodity and that the exporter has fulfilled all necessary requirements.
“This inaugural export is a positive step for businesses looking to expand the herbal commodity market internationally,” Duma remarked. She reaffirmed Karantina Banten's commitment to supporting and facilitating the export process, ensuring the quality and safety of commodities from production to export.
As Indonesia continues to navigate the complexities of international trade, the successful export of kratom to India could pave the way for further opportunities in the herbal market. The government's regulatory framework aims to balance economic growth with compliance to international standards, which is crucial for expanding Indonesia's agricultural exports.
In recent years, kratom has gained attention not only for its traditional uses but also for its potential as a legal alternative to certain substances in various countries. However, its legality varies widely, and exporters must ensure they adhere to the specific regulations of the importing country.
As the global demand for herbal products increases, Indonesia's strategic position as a supplier of kratom could enhance its standing in the international market. The successful certification and export of kratom to India may serve as a model for other herbal products, encouraging more businesses to engage in international trade.
In conclusion, Barantin's efforts to ensure compliance with international trade regulations reflect a growing recognition of the importance of biosecurity and quality assurance in the export of agricultural commodities. The future of Indonesia's kratom exports looks promising, with the potential for expansion into new markets as long as exporters remain vigilant about meeting the necessary requirements.
