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Indonesia's startup scene has been booming in recent years, with entrepreneurs launching businesses across a wide range of industries. In fact, Jakarta's burgeoning startup ecosystem was recently ranked third in Startup Genome's 2021 "Emerging Ecosystems" list. The city boasts a combined startup valuation of US$34 billion, making it one of the most exciting places to watch.
Indonesia is the largest economy in Southeast Asia, as found by the World Bank. Not just that, it's also projected to be the fourth largest economy in the world by 2030, according to Wellington Capital Advisory. Additionally, thanks to its central location, Indonesia is within easy reach of other Asian countries, which makes it an ideal base for regional operations. All of this makes Indonesia an increasingly appealing destination to build a startup.
If you are looking to start a company in Indonesia, this guide will provide the steps and documents required to start a business in the country.
Before starting a business in Indonesia, it is important to do your research and complete the necessary steps. This means establishing the right company structure and registering it in line with official regulations. The following sections discuss just this.
First, to build a startup in Indonesia, you must decide on your preferred business structure, which comprises:
Upon deciding on your company’s structure, you have to prepare the necessary documents and fulfil other requirements as needed for the successful formation of your company.
For foreigners looking to launch a company in Indonesia, registering for a PT PMA is likely the best option. PT PMA companies enjoy the same rights as locally owned companies. Moreover, PT PMA companies can use land in Indonesia and build on it, obtain industry licences, sponsor visas for foreign employees of the company, and participate in local tenders.
However, the following requirements must be met by you as the business owner of any company, including a startup:
Apart from the requirements mentioned, a number of other documents are also required for the formation of a company in Indonesia. They include:
Once you have prepared these documents through the local OSS system, your company will be registered, and you may start operating upon approval. On average, incorporating a company takes about a month after the submission of documents.
Overall, when you're first starting out, it can be tough to get your small business off the ground. Even with a solid business plan, there is a multitude of things to consider, from logistics to product packaging. Outsourcing your shipping needs to a reliable carrier like DHL Express can thus give you one less thing to worry about, freeing up time and resources that can be better spent on other areas of the business. Our selection of international logistics solutions comes with transportation, packaging, and online tracking needed to get your products to your customers safely and on time. If you are operating online, you may also read our guide on international e-commerce.
With the right partner in place, you can set your business up for success from the very start. Before you begin selling online, your startup needs to have the right logistics strategy, so that your customer can receive their parcels in time and in tip-top shape. Our suite of delivery options means your customers get the flexibility to choose how to receive their parcels. Have them select a time and date, or request for on-demand alternatives such as choosing to pick up at a DHL Express Service Point or placing the parcel on vacation hold. Couple this with an intuitive online platform, MyDHL+, and you and your team will find shipment preparation, management and tracking a breeze. Quickly create invoices with pre-filled information, shipping labels and more, and make all the necessary arrangements should you be notified of any challenges or hurdles your shipment faces on the last mile. Designed for unrivalled efficiency, our services ensure your customers won’t have to wait long for their parcels to arrive.
Sign up for a DHL Express Indonesia account today to learn how your business stands to benefit from our wide range of services and solutions. You may also reach us at our DHL call centres to learn more.