Indonesia’s GI New Registration: What You Need to Know

Recent clarifications from the Directorate General of Intellectual Property (DJKI) signal a more streamlined and internationally aligned registration process. Here we explore the implications for global and domestic brands, and how SKC Law can help with your Geographical Indications (GIs).

Why GIs Are Gaining Ground in Indonesia

Geographical Indications (GIs) are a form of intellectual property that protect products with qualities or reputations tied to their geographic origin—think Champagne, Darjeeling tea, or Kopi Kintamani Bali. In Indonesia, GIs are increasingly recognised as a tool for economic development, cultural preservation, and international trade.

The trend in GI applications has shown an overall upward trajectory from 2015 to 2024, with peaks in 2018 and 2024. These surges were driven by initiatives such as the Year of Geographical Indication and the GI Drafting Camp, which mobilised regional offices and empowered local communities to pursue GI registration.

In a recent meeting with Bapak Gunawan, Chair of the GI Incubator Task Force, SKC Law obtained key insights into how Indonesia is refining its GI registration framework to better align with global standards.

Key Issues and IP Implications

Critical updates from the meeting:

• Naming conventions: Indonesia now allows GI names to follow foreign registrations without translation.
• Label requirements: Labels are not mandatory if the country of origin does not require them. This simplifies cross-border filings and reduces administrative burdens.
• Substantive examination: GI applications undergo a 150-day review by a multi-ministerial expert team. However, foreign applications are exempt from field verification.
• Enforcement parity with trademarks: GI holders can take action against infringing uses that are confusingly similar.

These developments reflect a shift toward harmonisation with international GI practices. Additionally, it is important to highlight the growing international recognition of Indonesian GIs, such as Gayo Arabica Coffee, Amed Bali Salt, and Muntok White Pepper, which are now registered in the European Union.

Why This Matters to You

These changes offer:

• Faster and more predictable registration

  Reduced translation and labelling requirements mean fewer delays and lower costs.

• Stronger enforcement tools

  GIs now enjoy protections comparable to trademarks, enhancing brand defence strategies.

• Territorial clarity

  The use of national GI symbols (e.g., Indonesia, Japan, EU) reinforces market exclusivity and consumer trust

For Indonesian businesses, this is a chance to elevate local products to global recognition – leveraging GIs as a strategic asset in export markets.

Strategic Insights and Practical Takeaways

We recommend the following actions:

1. Audit your product portfolio: Identify goods with unique geographic characteristics that may qualify for GI protection.
2. Align with foreign registrations: If your product is already registered abroad, use the same name and documentation to streamline the Indonesian filing.
3. Prepare high-quality abstracts: DJKI requires concise summaries (max 500 words) with clear product characteristics – lab testing, colour, flavour, etc.
4. Consider enforcement strategy early: Treat GIs like trademarks – monitor the market and prepare to act against infringers.
5. Use symbols strategically: Once registered, display the GI symbol to reinforce authenticity and deter misuse.

Explore how GIs can strengthen your brand strategy by reaching out to our team.

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