When registering food products in Indonesia, many businesses often confuse MD and ML registrations. These two categories are specifically designed to distinguish between locally produced (MD) and imported (ML) products. Understanding the key differences and knowing when to use each type is crucial for a smooth market entry.
What is MD Registration?
MD registration applies to domestically produced products. The process involves creating a registration account with the following required documents:
- NPWP (Taxpayer Identification Number)
- NIB (Nomor Induk Berusaha) Versi RBA – A business identification number based on the RBA version
- CPPOB License – Permission for Good Manufacturing Practice (CPPOB)
For the actual food product registration, the following documents are needed for MD products:
- Composition: A detailed list of ingredients.
- Production Process: A description of how the product is made.
- Production Code Explanation: Information about the production code.
- Shelf Life Explanation: Details on product expiration or storage conditions.
- Ingredient Specification: Specifications and standards for the ingredients.
- Label Design: A draft of the product label.
- Analytical Results: Test results are required, except for processed food products categorized as medium-to-low risk.
What is ML Registration?
ML registration is intended for imported products. The account registration process for ML products requires additional documentation compared to MD registration:
- NPWP (Taxpayer Identification Number)
- NIB (Nomor Induk Berusaha) Versi RBA
- SMKPO Certificate – Certification of the Food Safety Management System for processed food
- LOA (Letter of Authorization): A formal letter appointing a representative
- GMP/HACCP Certificate or Similar: Certification to ensure good manufacturing practices or related standards
For ML food product registration, businesses need to provide all the documentation required for MD products, along with extra documents:
- Composition
- Production Process
- Production Code Explanation
- Shelf Life Explanation
- Ingredient Specification
- Label Design
- Analytical Results (except for processed food products with medium-to-low risk)
- Health Certificate/Free Sale Certificate: A certificate proving that the product is approved for sale in the country of origin
- LOA (Letter of Authorization)
- Product Photos: Clear images of the product
- Label Translation: Translation of the label to ensure understanding by local consumers
When to Use MD vs. ML Registration
- MD Registration:
Use this process if your product is manufactured within Indonesia. It ensures that your local products meet Indonesian standards and are registered with the appropriate authorities. - ML Registration:
This is the correct process for imported products. Since ML registration requires additional documentation—such as a health certificate, product photos, and a label translation—it helps ensure that products from overseas comply with local regulations and consumer expectations.
Conclusion
Understanding the distinctions between MD and ML registration is essential for any business looking to enter the Indonesian market. By following the correct registration process and providing the necessary documentation, manufacturers and distributors can secure a smoother regulatory approval and build consumer trust in their products.
How can INSIGHTOF help?
INSIGHTOF offers comprehensive regulatory services to facilitate market entry in Indonesia, specializing in BPOM and Kemenkes product registration with expert guidance every step of the way. For any inquiries, please feel free to contact us at marketing@insightof.co.id.
