The Indonesian National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM) has officially issued a new regulation that governs the supervision of drugs and food circulated online, including on e-commerce platforms.
The update comes as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the safety, quality, and efficacy of products sold through online commerce (e-commerce), ensuring better protection for consumers in the digital marketplace.
Key Changes in Indonesia Updates Regulations
While the core framework of the 2024 regulation remains in place, the 2025 amendment introduces several critical updates aimed at streamlining supervision and enhancing accountability for online sellers and marketplace platforms.
1. Enhanced Oversight of Online Circulation
The regulation reaffirms that all drugs, traditional medicines, health supplements, cosmetics, and processed foods distributed online must meet rigorous safety and quality standards. BPOM has increased its authority to monitor digital platforms, social media, and dedicated e-commerce websites to prevent the sale of illegal or substandard products.
2. Stricter Requirements for Electronic System Providers (PSE)
Marketplace operators and other Electronic System Providers are now under stricter mandates to ensure that the merchants operating on their platforms comply with BPOM standards. This includes:
- Verifying the permits of sellers.
- Ensuring that product listings display valid marketing authorization (NIE) numbers.
- Promptly removing (taking down) any listings that violate safety regulations upon notice from BPOM.
3. Prohibited Substances and Products
The amendment provides clearer definitions on what cannot be sold online. Specifically, certain classes of “Hard Drugs” (Obat Keras) remain restricted and can only be sold through authorized Electronic Pharmacy Systems (SIPE), requiring a valid prescription.
4. Administrative Sanctions
To ensure compliance, the updated regulation outlines a series of administrative sanctions for violators, which may include:
- Written warnings.
- Temporary suspension of activities (including the closing of online storefronts).
- Revocation of distribution permits.
- Administrative fines.
Why Online Distribution of Drugs and Food Regulation Important?
The rise of online shopping has made access to healthcare products and food more convenient, but it has also opened doors for counterfeit or dangerous goods. By updating these regulations, BPOM aims to:
- Protect Public Health: Ensuring only safe and tested products reach the consumer.
- Create a Fair Market: Standardizing requirements for both physical and digital retailers.
- Increase Transparency: Forcing sellers to provide clear information regarding product legality.
