Indonesia rolls out new 2025 regulations for food packaging safety 

INDONESIA – Indonesia has rolled out new regulations for food contact materials (FCMs), aiming to enhance consumer safety and align with global standards. 

According to the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM), the updated rules, notified to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in November 2024, cover a wide range of materials including plastics, metals, glass, ceramics, paper, and cardboard. 

These measures are set to reshape the food packaging industry by prioritizing health, transparency, and international trade compatibility.

The regulations introduce strict specific and overall migration limits to control chemical transfer from packaging to food, based on rigorous scientific assessments. 

A positive list of approved substances ensures only safe materials are used, while a banned substances list prohibits harmful chemicals.

“This is a pivotal step toward safeguarding public health while boosting our global market presence,” said Dr. Rizka Andalucia, BPOM Head, in a statement. 

Businesses have until late 2025 to comply, requiring supply chain adjustments and enhanced safety testing.

In parallel, the Ministry of Industry’s Regulation No. 6 of 2025, effective January 24, mandated the adoption of SNI 8218:2024, a new standard for paper and cardboard primary food packaging. 

This updated the 2015 standard, incorporating advanced material science and global best practices. It includes stringent migration testing and hygiene requirements to ensure safety across diverse food types.

“These standards will elevate our packaging quality to meet international expectations,” stated Minister of Industry Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita. 

Compliance is required by July 24, 2025, with ISO 9001 integration and a Declaration of Conformity to ensure traceability.

For manufacturers and exporters, these changes present both challenges and opportunities. Reformulating materials and conducting rigorous testing are essential, but compliance enhances consumer trust and facilitates access to international markets. 

“Alignment with EU and ISO standards simplifies our export processes,” noted Siti Nurhaliza, a packaging supplier in Jakarta. Consumers benefit from reduced chemical exposure and contamination risks, fostering confidence in food safety.

Subscribe to our email newsletters that provide busy executives like you with the latest news insights and trends from Africa and the World. SUBSCRIBE HERE