A Legal Analysis of the Influence of International Trade on Import Restriction Policies in Indonesia

Wiwik Sri Widiarty, Jihyun Park, Tria Sasangka Putra

Abstract


This study examines how international trade dynamics influence Indonesia’s import restriction policies, focusing on the Minister of Trade Regulation Number 36/2023 and its amendment, the Minister of Trade Regulation Number 8/2024. The research aims to analyze how global trade commitments, particularly WTO principles such as GATT Articles I and XI, shape Indonesia’s regulatory framework; assess the economic and practical consequences of these restrictions for domestic industries and supply chains; and evaluate the balance between protectionism and trade liberalization, highlighting long-term implications for competitiveness and sovereignty. Using a normative juridical approach, the study reviews primary, secondary, and tertiary legal materials, including national legislation and international conventions such as WTO/GATT, AFTA, NAFTA, and ACFTA. Legal analysis is conducted qualitatively, focusing on trade regulations, licensing measures, and policy adaptations, complemented by doctrinal interpretation to construct a comprehensive understanding of the legal framework. Findings reveal that while the Minister of Trade Regulation Number 36/2023 sought to protect domestic industries and consumers, it disrupted supply chains and delayed shipments, imposing economic costs. Subsequent relaxations under the Minister of Trade Regulation Number 8/2024 and later reforms in 2025 improved efficiency and balanced deregulation with strategic safeguards. The study underscores the trade-off between short-term protectionism and long-term competitiveness, emphasizing the need for adaptive, transparent, and WTO-compliant policies. Insights from this research provide guidance for strengthening Indonesia’s import regulations while maintaining compliance with international trade obligations.

Keywords


Import Restrictions; Policy Adaptation; Protectionism; Trade Policy; WTO Compliance

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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.30659/jh.41.3.741-766

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