Public policy observer Trubus Rahadiansyah is of the opinion that the policy of limiting imported goods carried by passengers purchased from abroad is prone to being misused. This policy is considered to have the potential to give rise to corrupt practices by Customs officers.
The Ministry of Trade (Kemendag) has begun implementing Trade (Permendag) Number 36 of 2023 concerning Import Policies and Regulations. This policy will come into effect 90 days from the date of promulgation or on March 10, 2024.
The Main Customs and Excise Service Office for Middle Type Customs (KPUBC TMP) C Soekarno-Hatta, Tangerang, has socialized the Minister of Trade Regulation. A total of five types of foreign baggage are limited in the amount of cargo, namely electronic equipment, footwear, textile goods, bags and shoes. If there are passengers carrying more cargo than the specified amount, Customs officers will charge a professional import fee for the goods.
“I see that the policy has the potential to give rise to corrupt practices. There will be a lot of underhand deals between officers and passengers,” said Trubus when contacted Indonesian MediaSunday (17/3).
He said that Indonesian citizens (WNI) who have a lot of money will easily pass luggage from outside that exceeds the load limit if they cooperate with officers.
“It’s no secret that many of our officers commit violations. Restricted items can easily be smuggled if passengers have money,” he accused.
Trubus requested that the policy of limiting imports of passenger luggage purchased from abroad to specific items be reviewed because it was considered that this might cause new problems and might tarnish Indonesia’s image in the eyes of the world.
“This policy has no urgency to be implemented. This will damage Indonesia’s own image in international eyes. Other countries do not impose restrictions on more private goods,” he concluded. (Z-6)
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