Indonesian Government Takes Firm Stance Against Used Clothing Imports

Comprehensive Measures to Protect Local Industries

The Indonesian government has implemented a comprehensive ban on used clothing imports, as announced by Minister of UMKM Maman Abdurrahman ¹

. This decisive action is backed by Permendag Number 40 of 2022, which amends previous regulations on prohibited import goods ¹

Source 1

https://finance.detik.com/berita-ekonomi-bisnis/d-8214609/purbaya-mau-daur-ulang-baju-impor-bekas-sitaan-menteri-umkm-respons-begini

. The government is not only focusing on enforcement but also preparing a robust support system for local industries.

Preparing Local Alternatives

To help former used clothing sellers transition, the government has identified 1,300 local brands that can serve as alternative suppliers ⁴

. This initiative was revealed after a meeting between Minister Maman Abdurrahman and Minister of Trade Budi Santoso. The move aims to help local businesses capture the market previously dominated by imported used clothing.

Recycling Seized Used Clothing

In a related development, Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has proposed recycling seized used clothing instead of the traditional method of destruction through burning ⁵

. This plan, supported by President Prabowo Subianto, aims to reduce the significant costs associated with destroying such goods - approximately Rp 12 million per container ⁵

Source 5

https://nasional.kontan.co.id/news/pemerintah-larang-impor-pakaian-bekas-pemerintah-siapkan-alternatif-produk-lokal

.

Addressing the Issue of Unbranded Chinese Imports

The government is also tackling the issue of cheap, unbranded imports from China that are affecting local UMKM businesses ³

. Minister Maman Abdurrahman confirmed that a technical team will follow up on this matter, ensuring that the government's response is comprehensive and effective.