Indonesian Government Strengthens Enforcement Against Used Clothing Imports

Strict Measures Against Import Violations

The Indonesian government has taken a firm stance against imported used clothing, with Minister of Trade Budi Santoso emphasizing that used clothing imports remain strictly prohibited ³

. The government has been enforcing this regulation through various measures, including confiscation and destruction of illegal shipments.

Enforcement and Penalties

The crackdown on used clothing imports involves multiple layers of enforcement. Minister Budi clarified that importers violating the ban face severe penalties, including business closure, administrative sanctions, and mandatory destruction of the imported goods ²

. Notably, the destruction of confiscated items is carried out at the expense of the importers, serving as an additional financial deterrent ²

Source 2

https://finance.detik.com/berita-ekonomi-bisnis/d-8222751/jawaban-menteri-umkm-ke-pedagang-thrifting-minta-dilegalkan

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Impact on Thrift Market and UMKM

The government's actions directly impact the thriving thrift market in Indonesia, where used clothing is a significant component. Minister for UMKM, Maman Abdurrahman, addressed concerns from thrift sellers, clarifying that the government's focus is on regulating illegal imported used clothing rather than the thrift business itself ¹

. The distinction is crucial as it affects numerous UMKM businesses that rely on selling used clothing.

Regulatory Framework

The prohibition on used clothing imports is rooted in existing trade regulations. Minister Budi referenced Law No. 7/2014 on Trade as the legal basis for the ban, emphasizing that the restriction is not primarily about tax collection but about enforcing specific trade prohibitions ³

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