Indonesia is making major changes to its intellectual property system in 2026.
Whether your business is already operating in Indonesia or planning to enter the market, these six developments are worth watching.
01 Patent Protection Is Expanding
Indonesia is expanding the scope of what can qualify for patent protection.
Protection is no longer limited to products, processes, and improvements. Under the new rules, it may also cover systems, methods, and uses.
For technology-driven industries, including software and advanced manufacturing, this could be an important change.
One point to note: Fees for excess claims could previously be deferred for up to 36 months. Under Ministry of Law Regulation No. 6/2026, these fees must now be paid when the application is filed.
Businesses should therefore factor these costs into their budgets from the beginning.
02 Trademark Rules Are Being Updated
Indonesia’s new trademark regulation, Ministry of Law Regulation No. 5/2026, took effect in February. It replaces the previous framework that had been in place since 2016.
Under the previous system, some procedures left considerable room for interpretation. In practice, businesses sometimes relied on informal arrangements or workarounds when dealing with the trademark authorities.
The new regulation aims to bring the formal rules more closely in line with actual administrative practice.
For businesses, this should provide greater predictability. However, companies that have relied on previous practices may need time to adjust to the new system.
03 Online IP Enforcement Is Getting Stronger
Indonesia is also strengthening its approach to online intellectual property infringement.
Under Ministry of Law Regulation No. 47/2025, rights holders can submit infringement complaints directly to the Directorate General of Intellectual Property (DGIP) for violations occurring through electronic systems, including e-commerce platforms and other digital channels.
Importantly, this mechanism is not limited to copyright.
It covers a broader range of IP rights, including:
- Trademarks
- Patents
- Industrial designs
- Trade secrets
- Geographical indications
For brands dealing with online counterfeiting and infringement, this provides an additional enforcement tool.
04 Official IP Fees Are Increasing
Starting August 1, official intellectual property fees will increase under Government Regulation No. 30/2026. The regulation replaces the fee schedule introduced in 2024.
Trademark fees are expected to see some of the most significant increases, although the exact amount will vary depending on the type of filing or service.
The new rules also introduce additional fees for certain enforcement-related matters arising under the new patent law.
What businesses should do: If you already have IP applications planned, consider whether it makes sense to file before the new fee schedule takes effect.
05 Indonesia Remains on the U.S. “Priority Watch List”
Indonesia remains on the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Priority Watch List.
In its 2026 Special 301 Report, the USTR highlighted continued concerns about IP enforcement, particularly customs enforcement against counterfeit goods.
However, the report also recognized the progress Indonesia has made in strengthening its IP system.
The overall picture is therefore mixed. Indonesia is making real progress, but important gaps remain, particularly in areas such as border enforcement.
06 AI and Copyright Are the Next Areas to Watch
Another important development is Indonesia’s proposed reform of its Copyright Law.
The draft amendment would represent the most significant revision since the current Copyright Law was introduced in 2014.
It addresses several emerging issues, including:
- AI-generated works
- NFTs and blockchain-based records
- Greater responsibility for online platforms
- New royalty reporting requirements
For AI companies, technology businesses, and fintech companies operating in Indonesia, these changes could be particularly important.
If adopted, they may also affect how businesses approach IP due diligence in M&A and investment transactions.
What Does This Mean for Businesses?
Indonesia is moving toward a more modern and structured intellectual property system.
For businesses operating in Southeast Asia’s largest economy, this creates both opportunities and new responsibilities.
On the positive side, stronger enforcement mechanisms and clearer procedures should make it easier for businesses to protect valuable IP assets.
At the same time, companies should prepare for higher costs, new compliance requirements, and changes to existing filing strategies.
Three practical steps to consider
1. Review your existing IP portfolio.
Check whether your patents, trademarks, and other IP rights are properly protected under the updated rules.
2. Review upcoming filing plans.
If you have applications planned for the near future, consider how the new fee structure and procedural changes may affect your timing and budget.
3. Keep monitoring the reforms.
Some of the changes, particularly those relating to AI and copyright, are still developing. Businesses should keep track of further regulations and implementation guidance.
Final Thoughts
Indonesia’s IP system is changing quickly.
For companies already operating in the country, this is a good time to review existing IP protection and compliance practices. For businesses planning to enter the Indonesian market, the reforms should be considered when developing an IP strategy from the outset.
The key takeaway is simple: Indonesia is strengthening its IP framework, but businesses need to keep up with the changes.
Sources
- SSEK Law Firm, “Indonesia Introduces Updates to Patent, Trademark and Online IP Enforcement Regime”
- Conventus Law, “Indonesia Introduces Updates to Patent, Trademark and Online IP Enforcement Regime”
- Law.asia, “Indonesia Trademark Regulation Updates: Key Changes Explained”
- KASS Intellectual Property, “From Practice to Policy: What Has Indonesia’s 2026 Trademark Regulation Changed?”
- K&K Advocates, “Indonesia Government Regulation No. 30/2026: IP Official Fee Adjustments”
- AFFA, “Indonesia’s Growing Commitment to IP Protection: Insights from the 2026 Special 301 Report”
- Global Advisory Experts, “Indonesia’s 2026 Copyright Law Draft Amendment: A Practical Guide for Technology, AI and Fintech Businesses”