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IMEI control to protect mobile devices from illicit trade
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ounterfeit or illegal phones, portable computers and tablets are often distributed to mobile device stores throughout Indonesia. They also negatively impact the prices of registered products, while official dealers need to protect their reputation as well as the branded products they offer.
The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) is a special serial number that identify mobile devices, such as mobile phones, laptops and tablets. The purpose of IMEI is to prevent the illegal distribution of these devices.
Indonesia issued a regulation governing IMEI on April 18, 2020.
The Finance Ministry’s Directorate General of Customs and Excise is one of the government agencies responsible for protecting the public from the illegal sale and distribution of mobile devices, especially those from abroad. Furthermore, the Customs and Excise Office is committed to helping domestic industries to thrive, especially the mobile device industry.
“Each mobile device brought [into the country] from abroad must have a registered IMEI so it can be used in Indonesia. The policy’s goal is to encourage the domestic mobile device industry so it can compete and optimize revenue,” Hatta Wardhana, the head of public relations and customs counseling at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise’ subdirectorate, said on Wednesday.
According to Hatta, the Indonesian Cell Phone Association (APSI) has welcomed the enactment of the IMEI regulation.
“APSI appreciates the Finance Ministry for implementing the IMEI regulation. They deem that the regulation has been effective in increasing state revenue from increased taxes on mobile devices,” he added.
Aside from the potential increase in state revenue from value added tax (VAT) collected from mobile device sales, the IMEI regulation also protected consumers through warranties and provided a safe business environment for compliant companies, explained Hatta.
The Customs and Excise Office advises consumers to always adhere to the regulation, as it is not difficult to register the IMEI of mobile devices they bring into the country. All they need to do is to register the IMEI of their new mobile device through the customs office’s website (www.beacukai.go.id) or via the Mobile Customs application, which is currently available for Android. Additional information on registering the IMEI is available on the customs office’s FAQ page (bit.ly/FAQ-IMEI).
“By complying with the IMEI regulation, the public is empowering the domestic mobile device industry. At the same time, they are contributing to a healthy and secure business climate”, said Hatta.
