Finance Minister Purbaya Targets Balpres Imports and Thrift Trade

JAKARTA, 28 October 2025 – Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa said the government will enforce strict action against balpres importers and thrift traders who continue to defy the rules. He noted that traders’ refusal makes it easier for authorities to act.

Balpres, meaning imported second‑hand clothing, is prohibited under Trade Minister Regulation No. 40/2022, which classifies it under tariff heading 6309. Purbaya warned that thrift sellers who reject the regulation will be detained first.

The measures aim to curb the domestic supply of second‑hand garments and encourage buyers to choose locally produced goods, especially from MSMEs. The finance ministry clarified it will not raid traditional markets, focusing instead on border controls.