Indonesia has recently taken significant strides to improve its export processes and infrastructure, aimed at streamlining the rules for small-scale exporters and enhancing trade routes, particularly with neighboring countries. This initiative is largely encapsulated within the introduction of Ministerial Regulation PMK 4/2025, which was announced on February 3, 2025, and is set to come effective on March 5, 2025.
According to Susila Brata, the Directorate General of Customs and Excise, one of the primary goals of PMK 4/2025 is to simplify export regulations for smaller shipments, particularly those lacking formal export facilities. "Kalau sebelumnya agak kesulitan rekan-rekan kita, khususnya para pelaku usaha yang mendapatkan fasilitas fiskal..." he stated. This new regulation permits the use of consignment notes (CN) for goods weighing under 30 kilograms, making it easier for businesses to export samples and small consignments.
Simultaneously, the regulation also consolidates the documentation needed for entrepreneurs wanting to export via postal services, allowing for streamlined export processes for those who utilize consignment notes. This move is expected to bolster small businesses' capabilities to engage with the international market.
Further highlighting the potential of Indonesia's export activities, reports have emerged from the border area of Papua, where the export value to Papua New Guinea (PNG) via the PLBN Skouw checkpoint reached Rp 3.5 billion for January 2025. Adeltus Lolok, the Head of Customs Jayapura, remarked, "Bea Cukai Jayapura akan terus mendorong para pengusaha untuk menangkap peluang ekspor ke PNG," emphasizing the need for local exporters to seize opportunities across the border.
The export activities have not only yielded substantial revenue but have also generated local market transactions. The PLBN Skouw market reportedly saw transactions worth Rp 4 billion, indicating vibrant commercial exchange between Indonesian sellers and PNG buyers.
Yet, the exporters' efforts have been met with challenges. Zulfydar Zaidar Mochtar, member of the DPRD Kalbar, vocalized concerns about revenue sharing from Indonesia's rich export commodities, including bauxite, gold, and palm oil. "Kami mendorong adanya bagi hasil keuangan pusat dan daerah terhadap produk ekspor...," he insisted during the recent simultaneous inauguration of local heads. He emphasized the importance of equitable distribution of benefits to stakeholders directly involved in production.
To strengthen the link between export and local development, Zulfydar urged newly appointed local leaders to engage constructively with businesses. He noted the pressing need for improved infrastructure, particularly roads leading to industrial areas such as around the Well Harvest Winning Alumina Refinery. "Kami berharap kepala daerah dapat menjalin komunikasi dan negosiasi yang baik dengan perusahaan-perusahaan untuk turut berkontribusi membangun infrastruktur...," he added, indicating the potential for collaboration to meet broader community needs.
Overall, these initiatives signal Indonesia's commitment to enhancing its export framework and infrastructure, not just to improve economic outcomes but also to strengthen ties between various stakeholders. By implementing regulations like PMK 4/2025 and fostering dialogue between local governments and businesses, the nation prepares itself for greater engagement with the global market and addresses the unique challenges faced by its exporters.