SMEs Complain About Admin Fees, Trade Minister Prepares E-Commerce Regulation Revision

The government is preparing revisions to digital trade regulations to improve the e-commerce ecosystem in Indonesia. This step follows complaints from micro, small, and medium enterprises (SMEs) about high administrative and logistical costs on digital platforms. Trade Minister Budi Santoso said the government is currently discussing revisions to Ministry of Trade Regulation No. 31 of 2023, which governs trade through electronic systems. “Yes, so now we are preparing revisions to the regulation regarding the e-commerce ecosystem. But I cannot yet detail its contents, as it is still under discussion,” Budi Santoso said on the sidelines of the National Consumer Day celebration 2026 in Jakarta on Sunday (10/5/2026). The regulation previously covered business licensing, advertising, guidance, and supervision of businesses in digital-based trade or marketplaces. The government believes the rules need adjustment to the current industry dynamics and business needs. Budi explained that the revisions are directed towards strengthening consumer protection while enhancing the position of local products, including SMEs, in promotion and sales systems on online trading platforms. “First, to protect consumers. Then, how the rights obtained by sellers or local products are prioritised in promotions or sales through e-commerce,” he said. In addition, the government wants to build a more balanced digital trade ecosystem between platforms and businesses. “So, we are improving the ecosystem together, from businesses, platform owners, to sellers. But it’s not finished yet, still under discussion,” said Budi. He assured that all stakeholders are involved in the regulatory revision discussions, including digital platform companies and sellers. “It must be mutually beneficial so that everything runs smoothly. E-commerce also needs sellers. Sellers also need e-commerce. But how they can work together, and each party’s obligations must be mutually beneficial, so the ecosystem runs well,” he said. The government is also still reviewing various policy instruments before the new rules are established. “Of course, many instruments we are reviewing again. We review and process everything,” Budi stated.