“Trade Minister Regulation No. 47 of 2025 on prohibited import goods outlaws the import of used clothing under HS code 6309.00.00,” Santoso said during a meeting with Commission VI of the House of Representatives (DPR) in Jakarta on Wednesday.
He stressed that the import restriction is consistent with the state’s responsibility to protect citizens from potential hazards, including health risks, as mandated by Law No. 7 of 2014 on Trade.
From an economic perspective, Santoso noted that the policy is also intended to safeguard domestic micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from unfair competition arising from illegally imported goods, while generating stronger multiplier effects through the use of domestically produced products.
“Additionally, this ban is aimed at preventing Indonesia from becoming a major destination for textile waste, which could worsen environmental problems,” he explained.
Santoso also briefed lawmakers on enforcement efforts, stating that the Directorate General of Consumer Protection and Trade Order has secured significant quantities of imported used clothing across various regions between 2022 and 2025.
He cited the seizure of 750 bales of imported used clothing worth approximately Rp8.5 billion in Karawang, West Java, on August 12, 2022.
In 2023, the ministry confiscated 7,000 bales worth Rp80 million in Bekasi, West Java; 112.95 tons of used clothing in Batam, Riau Islands, valued at Rp17.35 billion; and another 200 bales in Bekasi worth Rp1 billion. These enforcement actions were carried out between March and April.
Without disclosing their value, Santoso also reported the seizure of 730 bales in Pekanbaru, Riau; 824 bales in Sidoarjo, East Java; and 112 bales in Minahasa, North Sulawesi, between March and May 2023.
Turning to 2025, the minister said his office seized 463 bales worth Rp6.3 billion in Surabaya, East Java, on January 13; 1,200 bales worth Rp8.3 billion in Subang, West Java, on January 30; and 19,391 bales worth Rp112.35 billion in West Java between August 14 and 15 period.
He added that all seizures were followed by administrative sanctions against the businesses involved, along with orders for the destruction of the confiscated goods.
Related news: Purbaya rejects donating seized clothes for Sumatra disaster aid
Related news: Ministry to rebrand thrift markets, promote sale of local products
Related news: Jakarta backs tough sanctions on illegal thrifting, vows crackdown
Translator: Muhammad H, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: M Razi Rahman
Copyright © ANTARA 2026
