Expert Interview: Insights from our IP experts – Indonesia

Today, let’s meet Andrew Conduit, our IP expert based in Indonesia!

Andrew is uniquely qualified to advise clients on extracting value from IP in Indonesia, combining legal expertise, an entrepreneurial mindset, and cultural awareness in a holistic approach to formulating strategy. His principal interest is contentious IP, including dispute systems design, dispute strategy, litigation, mediation, and negotiation. He firmly believes that IP registration and enforcement should be as straightforward and efficient as possible - that IP is ultimately a tool to be leveraged to achieve organisational goals.

"An effective IP strategy aligns with the local context and leverages SWOT (Strengths -   Weaknesses - Opportunities - Threats). Indonesia is unique, and your IP strategy should reflect that.” said Andrew.

Andrew is one of the many professionals in the South-East Asia IP expert network, supporting international SMEs across the region.

Q1: From your experience, what are the main IP risks or obstacles in Indonesia that EU SMEs should be aware of? 

• High prevalence of counterfeiting: Counterfeit goods are widespread, especially in consumer-facing industries, posing serious risks to brand integrity.
• Limited access to reliable information: Online databases are often outdated or incomplete, making IP research and verification difficult.
• Procedural ambiguity: The Indonesian IP office does not publish guidelines, leaving applicants uncertain about processes and expectations.
• Personal liability for directors: Company directors can be held criminally responsible for IP infringement, even if unintentional.
• Limited enforcement by Customs: Border enforcement actions are infrequent, and limited support is available for foreign IP owners.

Q2: Is there something SMEs often misunderstand or overlook when it comes to IP protection in Indonesia?

Too often, SMEs come to see us only after they’ve encountered trouble - when IP issues have already become disruptive and expensive. Many put IP strategy in the “too-hard” basket and assume it can wait. A little forward planning goes a long way in avoiding costly headaches and protecting business continuity.

Q3: What are your top practical tips or advice for European SMEs regarding IP protection in Indonesia? 

• Register IP early and as used: This helps mitigate criminal liability risks and strengthens your enforcement position.
• Avoid situations prone to corruption: For example, don’t ask officials to expedite a trademark registration; follow formal procedures.
• Monitor markets and take regular, visible enforcement action: Even small-scale, regular enforcement sends a strong message and helps deter infringement.
• Select an IP consultant who has the network and resources to stay abreast of practice changes: IP practice in Indonesia evolves continuously and informally.
• Educate local partners and distributors: Clear expectations and training on IP compliance reduce the risk of unintentional violation.

Discover our full network of IP experts across South-East Asia. 

Explore more insights on IP protection in Indonesia, download the Indonesia IP country factsheet.

If you have any further questions on how to protect your IP in SEA, contact us at expertsea-iphelpdesk [dot] eu (expert[at]sea-iphelpdesk[dot]eu).