U.S. ATO Jakarta recommends U.S. suppliers confirm regulations with their importer directly. Large entities, such as supermarket chains, have their own importing and distribution affiliates, although they also buy from independent importers. Most imported products on the supermarket shelves are not registered and enter the country illegally, usually through mixed container loads. This method of entry has several negative ramifications. This cause problems for the supermarkets when GOI officials patrol the shelves to check on registered products.
Supermarkets complain about inconsistent supplies.
With no agent, no one provides essential support in marketing the product. In addition, the quality questionable if no one is responsible for checking to make sure the products on the shelves are fresh and undamaged. Unregistered products usually have no expiration date which is very important in a country where storage facilities may be harsh and products may not turn over as quickly as in the United States. The Indonesian major food importer are listed. Most of them have already become agents of U.S., Australian, or New Zealand food products and some own cold storage facilities.