Import Quota Is Ending Soon: What Happens If You’re Late?

Year-End Rush: The Race Against the Import Clock

As the year draws to a close, the trade world grows increasingly busy. Importers rush to submit documents, ensure shipments arrive on time, and finalize import license reports before December 31.

But behind this routine lies one crucial fact that many businesses overlook: your import permit automatically expires at the end of the calendar year — regardless of when it was issued.

This is not a new phenomenon — yet every year, some companies fail to act in time. The consequences can be severe: expired permits, materials stuck at ports, and disrupted production.

This article explains why the deadline matters, the risks of missing it, and how Bonded Logistics Centers (PLB) can serve as a strategic solution to manage year-end import pressure.

Import Permits: Valid Until the End of the Calendar Year

According to Ministry of Trade Regulation (Permendag) No. 36 of 2023 on Import Policy and Regulation — and its 2024 amendment — import permits for specific goods such as iron and steel, textiles, chemicals, and consumer goods are valid only within the calendar year.

In other words, all import licenses automatically expire on December 31, regardless of their issuance month.

This rule is reaffirmed by multiple legal sources, including Assegaf Hamzah & Partners (AHP Indonesia, 2024):

“Import permits remain valid only through the end of the calendar year in which they are issued, regardless of the month of issuance.”

So, if your company obtains an import license in June 2025, it will still expire on December 31, 2025.

There is no automatic renewal mechanism for the following year — a new license must be submitted for the next period.

For importers and manufacturers relying on overseas raw materials, this has major implications. Goods that have not been shipped or have not arrived in Indonesia before the permit expires cannot be processed or released from the port.

If they have already arrived, the goods will require a new permit or even be subject to additional inspections by authorities.

The Real Risks of Being Late

For some businesses, a one-week delay at the end of the year might seem trivial. But in the world of import permits, even a small delay can cause major problems:

1. Production Disruption

Factories cannot operate because raw materials are stuck at the port. Production lines stop, and deliveries to customers are delayed.

2. Increased Costs

Delayed goods incur demurrage and storage fees, plus potential penalties for late deliveries to end customers.

3. Expired Permits

Once a permit expires, reapplication in the new year is not instantaneous. Administrative processes at the Ministry of Trade and other agencies take time — especially as queues surge at the start of the year.

4. Cash Flow Disruption

Companies may have to repurchase the same goods at higher prices in the new year, since old import quotas cannot be realized.

Together, these factors make Q4 the most critical period for importers and producers.

This is why many companies are turning to Bonded Logistics Centers (PLB) as a way to secure their position before the deadline hits.

How PLB Helps Manage Year-End Import Pressure

A Bonded Logistics Center (PLB) is a customs-supervised bonded warehouse that allows importers to store imported goods without paying import duties or taxes upfront.

Goods can be stored in bonded zones for several years and will only be taxed when released to the domestic market.

This feature makes PLB an ideal solution for the year-end crunch:

1. Timely Import Permit Realization

If goods arrive and enter a PLB before December 31, the importer is legally considered to have fulfilled the import permit. The goods can remain in the bonded zone until the right time for use or sale.

2. Flexible Goods Withdrawal

Once new permits are issued the following year, importers can release goods from the PLB gradually, according to production needs — without rushing or worrying about losing quotas.

3. Reduced Warehouse Pressure

Many companies run out of warehouse space at year-end. By using PLBs such as those operated by Transcon Indonesia (TCI), imported goods can be safely stored in bonded zones without overloading internal facilities.

4. Cash Flow Support

PLB also helps maintain liquidity, as duties and taxes are only paid when goods are actually used. This is especially useful for importers managing year-end financial closures.

Transcon Indonesia’s Role in Import Strategy

As a licensed Bonded Logistics Center (PLB) operator with a real-time digital system, TCI provides integrated solutions for importers and manufacturers seeking smarter ways to manage import quotas.

Through TCI’s user-friendly dashboard, you can:

Track permit status and cargo position in real time.
Receive automatic notifications before permit expiry.
Schedule goods withdrawal from PLB based on production demand.
Consult TCI’s customs experts to ensure compliance with the latest regulations.

With extensive experience handling thousands of import permits across industries — from automotive and energy to heavy manufacturing — TCI fully understands the year-end pressure businesses face.

PLB is not just a warehouse, but a strategic tool to ensure your business continuity.

Conclusion: Time Won’t Wait

Every import permit has a fixed expiration date — December 31. There is no room for delay.

For companies with remaining quotas or shipments en route, the time to act is now.

Use PLB to minimize permit expiration risk, maintain flexibility, and ensure your materials remain safe into the new year.

“In an ever-changing regulatory landscape, a PLB isn’t just a warehouse — it’s a strategy.”

Evaluate your import position today.
Contact TCI’s team for a free 30-minute consultation and discover how PLB can help your business close the year smoothly — and start the next one strong.