The Ministry of Finance (Kemenkeu) continues its efforts to strengthen and streamline export-import governance across Indonesia. As part of this commitment, Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa conducted a direct visit to the Medium Customs and Excise Supervision and Service Office (KPPBC TMP) Tanjung Perak and the Class II Surabaya Customs and Excise Laboratory Center (KBLBC) on Tuesday, November 11.
“I observed firsthand the physical inspection process for export-import goods at the container port’s inspection facility,” Purbaya shared via his official TikTok account, @purbayayudhis, on Wednesday, November 12.
During this crucial visit, Minister Purbaya once again uncovered instances of under-invoicing in export-import activities. This deceptive practice involves declaring a lower invoice value for goods or services than their actual price, primarily to reduce import duties and taxes, thereby causing significant financial losses to the state.
Specifically, Purbaya highlighted a case where machinery was declared at a mere US$7, equivalent to approximately Rp 117,054 (based on an exchange rate of Rp 16,722 per US dollar). However, a quick check on e-commerce platforms revealed the same item being sold for tens of millions of rupiah, starkly illustrating the extent of the undervaluation.
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“When inspecting containers, one item caught my attention due to its suspiciously low declared price. How can such a high-quality item be valued at only US$7 when it sells for Rp 40-50 million on marketplaces? This will be further investigated,” Purbaya stated in the video uploaded to his account.
Observing the Operation of the Container Scanner
Beyond identifying fraudulent practices, the Minister also directly observed the operation of a newly installed container scanner, which had been in place for only about two weeks. While acknowledging that the equipment is not yet perfectly optimized, Purbaya expressed confidence that it would significantly enhance and expedite the capabilities of Customs and Excise officers in conducting thorough goods inspections.
Following his visit to the port, Purbaya proceeded to the KBLBC Class II Surabaya. This facility serves as a vital technical support unit, playing an indispensable role in fulfilling the core duties and functions of the Customs and Excise agency.
The KBLBC is specifically tasked with conducting laboratory testing and/or identification of goods, alongside developing laboratory standards in accordance with prevailing regulations.
During his tour, Minister Purbaya thoroughly inspected the laboratory facilities. He was pleased to note that KBLBC Class II Surabaya has been thoughtfully equipped with gender-responsive infrastructure and amenities, ensuring that all employees can access, utilize, and feel comfortable in their work environment without any form of discrimination.
“Our lab is excellent. I told the team there that if any equipment is lacking, they should let us know so it can be procured. I also saw the operation of the new container scanner, which was installed two weeks ago; it’s quite good, even if not yet perfect,” he concluded, highlighting the ongoing commitment to modernization and efficiency.
Summary
Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa visited the KPPBC TMP Tanjung Perak and KBLBC Class II Surabaya to strengthen export-import governance. During the visit, the practice of under-invoicing was discovered, which involves declaring a lower value for goods than their actual price in order to reduce import duties and taxes.
One case highlighted was an imported machine declared at a price of US$7 (approximately Rp 117 thousand), but sold for tens of millions of rupiah on e-commerce platforms. In addition, Minister Purbaya inspected the operation of a new container scanner, which is expected to improve the efficiency of goods inspection, as well as well-equipped laboratory facilities.
