Registering Your Trademark in Indonesia Early Matters – Who would have thought that Mangga Dua Market in Jakarta would show up in a US import tariff negotiation document? Not as a famous electronics center, but highlighted as a hotspot for counterfeit goods and piracy. This criticism isn’t only about the reputation of one market. It’s a sharp reminder for business owners and local brands to ask: how ready are we to protect our trademarks in Indonesia?
According to Hukumonline, a trademark is a sign that can be displayed graphically, like images, logos, names, words, letters, numbers, color combinations, in two or three dimensions, sounds, holograms, or a mix of those elements. The purpose is to differentiate goods and services produced by individuals or legal entities in trade.
Trademarks matter because they do more than just identify a product. They work as promotion tools and show product quality. In Indonesia, trademark protection falls under Law No. 20 of 2016 on Trademarks and Geographical Indications (UU MIG). The registration requirements are detailed in Article 21. In short, having an officially registered trademark is essential, not just nice to have.
From Mangga Dua to the Urgency of Protecting Trademark in Indonesia
This issue came up when the US flagged the spread of counterfeit and illegal products, mentioning Mangga Dua as an example. For years, Mangga Dua has been known for affordable shopping. But it got the spotlight from the US Trade Representative (USTR) in the National Trade Estimate Report on Foreign Trade Barriers 2025, released on March 31, 2025.
In the report, Mangga Dua Market was directly listed as a center of counterfeit and illegal products. In the Notorious Markets 2024 list, it was even named as a market that concerns the international community.
“Widespread copyright piracy and trademark counterfeiting, both online and offline, remain major concerns,” wrote the USTR in its 2025 report.
This shows that intellectual property protection in Indonesia is still seen as weak, especially in law enforcement and business awareness. Yet having an officially registered trademark isn’t just about having a certificate. It gives your brand exclusive legal rights to act against violators, protect your business reputation, and help you expand or attract investors.
Why Register Trademark in Indonesia Is Not Optional
Many MSMEs and startups think they can register later when the business grows. But legally, the first to register gets the rights. If someone else registers a name or logo similar to yours first, you could be the one accused of violating the law. The consequences can be product recalls, financial losses, and expensive lawsuits.
Today, a brand can become popular within months. Without protection, that growth could disappear quickly.
Read also: Indonesian Textile Industry in Shock as Trump Slaps 32% Import Tariff on All Products
Minister of Law Supratman Andi Agtas has emphasized that trademark registration for MSMEs and brand owners isn’t complicated. He mentioned this during a visit to the Ministry of Law office in Jakarta on Thursday, April 24, 2025.
A registered trademark is more than a defensive tool. It’s an asset that can be sold, inherited, or used as collateral for loans. But this only applies if your brand is officially registered at the Directorate General of Intellectual Property (DJKI).
Need Help Registering Your Trademark? Let Bizindo Help
Registering a trademark can feel complex. You need to check if the name is available, make sure it’s unique, complete documents, and watch out for objections.
Bizindo can handle the entire process, from research and checking to helping you respond if someone objects. That way, you can focus on growing your business while Bizindo takes care of your trademark’s legal protection.
Because a brand alone isn’t enough. Only those that are registered are protected and win in the market.
Find out more at here: A Concise Guide to: Trademark in Indonesia
20% off today. Whatsapp us!