Corporate tax in Indonesia is a key consideration for any business—local or foreign—looking to operate in the country. As Southeast Asia’s largest economy, Indonesia presents strong potential for foreign direct investment, but navigating its tax landscape is essential to ensure compliance, manage operational costs, and avoid legal and financial risks. Understanding how the corporate tax system works, including applicable rates, filing obligations, and available incentives, is crucial for companies aiming to build a sustainable and compliant presence in the Indonesian market.

Overview of Corporate Tax in Indonesia

Corporate tax in Indonesia is governed by the Directorate General of Taxes (Direktorat Jenderal Pajak or DJP), under the Ministry of Finance. The primary tax applied to corporate income is the Corporate Income Tax (CIT), which is imposed on both resident and non-resident companies that earn income sourced from Indonesia.

Who Is Considered a Taxpayer?

• Resident taxpayers include entities that are established or domiciled in Indonesia. These companies are taxed on their worldwide income.
• Non-resident taxpayers—such as foreign companies without a permanent establishment (PE) in Indonesia—are only taxed on income derived from Indonesia.

If a foreign company operates through a permanent establishment (BUT)—such as a branch, representative office, or project office—it will be subject to the same tax obligations as resident companies for income earned in Indonesia.

Corporate Income Tax Rates

As of 2024, the standard corporate income tax rate in Indonesia is:

• 22% for most companies

However, there are exceptions based on company size:

• 20% for publicly listed companies that meet certain shareholding criteria (minimum 40% of shares offered to the public and traded on the Indonesia Stock Exchange)
• 0.5% of gross revenue for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with an annual turnover below IDR 4.8 billion, under final tax regime (valid for a limited period)
• 11% VAT (Value Added Tax) applies separately for goods and services

It’s important to note that Indonesia is moving toward creating a more competitive tax environment. The government occasionally reviews tax policies to attract more foreign investment, so staying updated is key.

Taxable Income and Deductions

Taxable income in Indonesia is calculated based on net profit, which is gross income minus allowable deductions. These include:

• Operational expenses related to business activities
• Depreciation and amortization
• Employee salaries and benefits
• Interest expenses (with certain limitations)
• Donations (within certain restrictions)

Some expenses are non-deductible, such as:

• Personal expenses
• Profit distribution (dividends)
• Certain entertainment costs
• Income tax penalties or administrative fines

Proper bookkeeping and documentation are critical to support deductions during tax audits.

Withholding Taxes (WHT)

Indonesia imposes various withholding taxes on payments made by resident taxpayers to other parties. Key WHT rates include:

• 15% on dividends, interest, and royalties paid to Indonesian residents
• 20% on payments to non-residents, unless reduced by a Double Taxation Agreement (DTA)

Indonesia has tax treaties with more than 60 countries, including Singapore, Japan, the Netherlands, and the United States. These agreements may lower withholding tax rates or exempt certain types of income from taxation, depending on the nature of the payment and the residency status of the recipient.

To benefit from reduced WHT under a DTA, foreign entities must submit a Certificate of Domicile (SKD) through the Indonesian tax portal.

Tax Compliance and Reporting Obligations

Businesses operating in Indonesia must register with the tax office and obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (NPWP). Regular tax filings include:

• Monthly tax returns for VAT, employee income tax (PPh 21), and withholding tax (PPh 23, PPh 26)
• Annual corporate income tax return (PPh 25/29) due by the end of the fourth month after the fiscal year ends (typically April 30 for companies using the calendar year)

Failure to comply with tax filing deadlines can result in administrative sanctions, interest penalties, or tax audits.

Transfer Pricing Considerations

Indonesia enforces transfer pricing regulations to ensure that transactions between related parties are conducted at arm’s length. Companies with related-party transactions must prepare and maintain:

• A Master File
• A Local File
• Country-by-Country Reporting (CbCR) for multinational groups

These documents must be available upon request and submitted within a specific timeframe. Non-compliance can lead to transfer pricing adjustments and tax penalties.

Tax Incentives for Foreign Investors

The Indonesian government offers various tax incentives to attract foreign direct investment, especially in priority sectors such as manufacturing, infrastructure, digital economy, and renewable energy. Incentives include:

• Tax holidays for large-scale investments in pioneer industries (e.g., oil refining, petrochemicals, ICT infrastructure)
• Tax allowances, including investment tax credits and accelerated depreciation
• Super deductions for R&D activities, labor-intensive industries, and vocational training
• Special Economic Zones (SEZs) that offer reduced tax rates, customs exemptions, and simplified licensing

Working with a local tax advisor or business consultant can help identify which incentives your company may be eligible for.

Getting Corporate Tax Right in Indonesia

Corporate tax in Indonesia is a critical aspect of doing business in the country. While the system is becoming more investor-friendly, it still requires a clear understanding of local tax laws, reporting obligations, and strategic planning—especially for foreign companies.

Whether you’re setting up a new entity or expanding existing operations, getting tax compliance right from the start can save your company from costly penalties and help maximize profitability.

At Double M, we help foreign companies navigate Indonesia’s corporate tax system with confidence—from company setup and tax registration to ongoing tax reporting and advisory. If you’re planning to invest in Indonesia, let’s talk about how we can support your tax and compliance needs.

Global tax optimization has become essential for multinational companies in an increasingly interconnected world. Efficient tax planning helps businesses reduce their overall tax burden while ensuring compliance with the complex tax regulations in various countries. This guide will explore key strategies for optimizing taxes globally and provide insights into how businesses can benefit from a well-structured tax approach.

Why Global Tax Optimization is Important

As businesses expand into international markets, they face a myriad of tax regulations that vary significantly from country to country. Without a strategic tax plan, companies may end up paying more in taxes than necessary or facing legal challenges due to non-compliance. Global tax optimization ensures that businesses:

1. Minimize tax liabilities by taking advantage of favorable tax laws.
2. Comply with international tax regulations, avoiding penalties or litigation.
3. Improve cash flow by reducing the amount of tax owed across multiple jurisdictions.

Understanding how different tax systems interact and identifying opportunities to optimize taxes can lead to significant cost savings for businesses.

Key Strategies for Global Tax Optimization

1. Transfer Pricing

Transfer pricing refers to the pricing of goods, services, and intangibles exchanged between related entities in different countries. Multinational companies must ensure that their transfer pricing practices align with the arm’s length principle, which mandates that transactions between related entities are conducted at market value. Properly managed transfer pricing helps businesses allocate profits to jurisdictions with lower tax rates, reducing overall tax liabilities.

2. Utilizing Tax Treaties

Tax treaties are agreements between countries to prevent double taxation and foster cross-border trade. By understanding and leveraging tax treaties, businesses can minimize withholding taxes on dividends, interest, and royalties. This allows companies to optimize their global tax position by ensuring they are not taxed multiple times on the same income.

3. Profit Repatriation

Profit repatriation involves bringing profits earned in foreign subsidiaries back to the parent company. Strategic repatriation planning helps businesses minimize taxes on these profits, often by utilizing lower-tax jurisdictions or taking advantage of exemptions in domestic tax laws. Businesses can defer or reduce repatriation taxes by carefully planning when and how to bring foreign earnings home.

4. Holding Company Structures

Establishing a holding company in a jurisdiction with favorable tax laws is a common strategy for global tax optimization. Holding companies can benefit from reduced corporate taxes, favorable tax treaties, and more efficient repatriation of profits. By using a tax-efficient holding company structure, multinational companies can reduce their global tax exposure and improve operational efficiency.

The Importance of Compliance

While optimizing global taxes can offer significant benefits, businesses must also prioritize compliance with local and international tax laws. Tax authorities are increasingly scrutinizing multinational companies’ tax practices, and failure to comply with regulations can result in costly penalties and reputational damage.

To stay compliant, businesses should work with experienced tax professionals who understand the nuances of global tax laws and can ensure that the company’s tax optimization strategies meet regulatory requirements.

Conclusion

Effective global tax optimization is crucial for multinational businesses looking to maximize their profitability and ensure compliance with tax regulations in multiple jurisdictions. By employing strategies such as transfer pricing, leveraging tax treaties, and structuring profit repatriation effectively, companies can reduce their tax liabilities while staying within the bounds of the law.

To learn more about navigating complex tax environments, consider exploring our article about Tax Litigation Services in Indonesia.

Tax Litigation Services in Indonesia helps businesses and individuals resolve disputes with tax authorities. This includes managing conflicts from tax audits, assessments, and decisions by the Directorate General of Taxes (DGT) or the Tax Court. These services involve representing clients through the dispute process and providing strategic advice to achieve favorable outcomes. Expert guidance is essential to navigate and resolve tax issues effectively.

What is a Tax Litigation Service?

Tax litigation refers to the legal process that occurs when a taxpayer disputes a decision made by the tax authorities. This process can involve various stages, including:

1. Tax Audit Disputes: When the DGT conducts an audit and finds discrepancies, it may issue a tax assessment. If the taxpayer disagrees with this assessment, a dispute may arise.
2. Objections and Appeals: Taxpayers have the right to file an objection against a tax assessment. If this objection is rejected, the next step is to file an appeal with the Tax Court.
3. Tax Court Litigation: Should the appeal process lead to litigation, the case is heard in the Tax Court, which is the judicial body specifically tasked with resolving tax disputes in Indonesia.
4. Civil Review: If the Tax Court’s decision is unsatisfactory, there is an option to seek a civil review by the Supreme Court of Indonesia under certain conditions.

The Role of Tax Litigation Services in Indonesia

Engaging a Tax Litigation Service in Indonesia provides businesses with the expertise required to navigate the complexities of tax disputes. Here’s how these services can assist:

• Expert Representation: Tax litigation professionals represent clients in dealings with the DGT, the Tax Court, and other relevant bodies. This representation is crucial in ensuring that the merits of the case are effectively presented and defended.
• Strategic Advice: Beyond just legal representation, a tax litigation service offers strategic advice on how to approach disputes, whether it’s negotiating with the tax authorities or deciding when to escalate a matter to the Tax Court.
• Comprehensive Support: From the initial stages of a tax audit to the final resolution in court, tax litigation services provide end-to-end support. This includes preparing and filing objections, representing clients in court, and even pursuing civil review if necessary.
• Mitigating Risks: One of the primary goals of tax litigation services is to mitigate the risks associated with tax disputes. This includes advising on compliance to avoid disputes and resolving issues efficiently when they arise.

Why Businesses Need Tax Litigation Services

Indonesia’s tax environment is governed by a complex set of laws and regulations, and the consequences of non-compliance can be severe. Disputes with tax authorities can lead to significant financial penalties, disrupt business operations, and cause reputational damage. Engaging a Tax Litigation Service in Indonesia offers several key benefits:

• Expert Knowledge: Tax litigation professionals have in-depth knowledge of Indonesian tax law and the workings of the Tax Court. This expertise is critical in navigating disputes successfully.
• Time Efficiency: Handling tax disputes can be time-consuming, especially for businesses that need to focus on their core operations. Tax litigation services take on this burden, allowing businesses to concentrate on growth.
• Cost-Effective Resolution: While litigation can be costly, the cost of not engaging expert services can be much higher if a dispute leads to severe penalties or unfavorable rulings. A well-managed litigation strategy can lead to more favorable outcomes.

Choosing the Right Tax Litigation Services in Indonesia

When selecting a Tax Litigation Service in Indonesia, businesses should consider the following factors:

• Experience and Expertise: The service provider should have a strong track record in handling tax disputes, including experience in the Tax Court and knowledge of Indonesian tax law.
• Comprehensive Services: Look for a provider that offers a full range of services, from pre-litigation advice to representation in court and assistance with civil review.
• Client Focus: The best tax litigation services work closely with clients to understand their business objectives and tailor their approach accordingly.

How Can Double M Help?

Double M is here to guide you through tax disputes in Indonesia. With our strong experience in tax law, we offer full support at every stage of the process, from audits to resolving disputes.

Expert Representation: We represent you in dealings with the DGT and other authorities, making sure your case is strong and well-prepared.

Custom Solutions: We know each tax issue is different, so we provide advice and strategies that fit your specific needs.

Complete Support: From the start of a tax audit to the final resolution, we’re with you every step of the way, handling everything for a smooth process.

Risk Reduction: We help you avoid penalties and achieve the best possible outcomes by offering proactive advice on compliance and dispute resolution.

Trust Double M to help you navigate tax disputes in Indonesia with confidence. Also, you may want to read our article on Tax Optimization in Indonesia to learn more about optimizing your taxes and reducing risks.

Outsourced accounting service in Indonesia is a term used for all-in accounting services provided by an external party. Typically, outsourced accountants provide the-day-to-day management of payable accounts, receivable accounts, financial reporting, cash flow reporting and many others. Outsourced accountants generally consist of several individuals forming a small team, which will cost considerably less than hiring actual employees. 

Types of Outsourced Accounting Service in Indonesia

1. Bookkeeping

In this service, we will organize your pre-existing books and ledgers. Should it be necessary, we shall create new ones. Furthermore, we will assist you in keeping tabs of claim forms, bank slips, bank statements, and various accounting reports that your company might have. 

2. Financial Reports

In this service, we will record, organize, and compile records of your monthly accounts. Including balances, statements, receivables, and payables. Everything will be organized in order and will be ready for your disposal within your preferred timeline. 

3. Payment Records

When conducting business, it is very likely that you will strike a partnership with external vendors. With outsourced accounting service in Indonesia, we will assist you in reviewing and managing invoices from vendors. We will make sure everything is orderly and make sure the figures are exactly correct. 

4. Financial Planning

In doing business, planning your finances properly is strongly advised. In this service, we will give you suggestions on budgeting, forecast your financial condition in the future, and make sure everything goes smoothly. 

5. Account Review

Streamlining and improving the accounting system is a must in order for the company to succeed. Therefore in this service, we will renew your accounting policies to the current developments. We will make sure that even the tiniest details will be kept in the records properly.

Benefits of Outsourced Accounting

1. Freedom

Most outsourced accounting service in Indonesia these days use cloud-based accounting software. With this method, you will be free to access your accounting records from anywhere in the world at any given time. 

2. Cost Saving

It is quite expensive to hire and train dedicated accounting personnel. However, by hiring an outsourced accountant, you will eliminate potential hiring and training costs. 

3. Continuity

When you hire accounting staff and they leave the company, important information goes out with them. By using outsourced staff, there is no risk of knowledge loss and you can get some continuity. 

Type of Companies That Use Outsourced Accounting Service in Indonesia

1. Small Business

Small businesses do not usually need full-time accountants, considering that they are mostly still in the process to establish other departments. As such, recruiting outsourced accountants usually becomes a solution

2. Company Struggling to Hire

There are many cases where companies struggle to recruit full-time accountants, be it for requirements or experience reasons. When it happens, they tend to use outsourced accounting service in Indonesia. 

3. Non-Profit Organizations

Just like their name, profit and finances and cash flow management are not typically the main priorities of this type of company, but there are times where they are still needed. Therefore in this scenario, it becomes a good solution to hire outsourced accountants. 

How can Double M help?

Using Outsourced Accounting Service in Indonesia is a great way to manage your finances. With Double M’s help, you can focus on other aspects of businesses and leave the accounting matters to us.

Fintech Company in Indonesia has been thriving for quite sometime. Financial technology, commonly abbreviated as fintech, is a new form of technology that aims to disrupt the usage of traditional financial methods in providing financial services. Generally, there are four pillar areas of fintech: Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Cloud computing, and big data. Most people know Fintech in Indonesia for their usage of smartphone technology for mobile banking, investing, loan services, and cryptocurrency. In recent years, fintech companies are growing larger in Indonesia, both in numbers and revenues.

Reasons Why Fintech Company in Indonesia is Thriving

Here are 5 reasons why fintech company in Indonesia is thriving:

1. High Demographic, High Internet Usage, Low Bank Usage

With a population almost reaching the figure of 280 million, Indonesia is the fourth most populous country in the world. Around 204 million, or 70% percent of the population are active internet users. Considering the fact that fintech is internet-based, it makes Indonesia such a fertile market for these enterprises to invest in.

During the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, about 129 million Indonesian used e-commerce and conducted transactions which amounted to IDR 266 trillion in total transaction value. As the most popular form of online payment these days, fintech companies are reaping the benefits of this upwards trend.

According to the e-Conomy SEA Report conducted by Google, Temasek, and Bain & Company, it was stated that 92 million Indonesians are unbanked, meaning they do not have any bank account at all, while 47 million are underbanked, meaning that they have a bank account but do not have access to credit cards as form of payment. This is an enormous opportunity for fintech companies that provide internet banking and digital payment services. 

2. Government Support

Law and regulation compliance often become a tricky obstacle in the financial sector. Strict laws and regulations are there to protect the consumers. In Indonesia, the government realizes the needs for an inclusive financial system. That is precisely why every fintech in Indonesia operates under the license, authorization, and guidance from the OJK (Financial Services Authorities). The Minister of Finance, Sri Mulyani also reaffirmed the intent of the Indonesian government to support the optimization of fintech company in Indonesia. Apart from easing regulations, the Indonesian government also collaborates alongside fintechs for the distribution and sales of Surat Berharga Negara (National Securities). The government also struck a deal with fintech companies to distribute cash relief for at-risk citizens during the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic.

3. Huge Investment

Investment is an instrumental factor for the success of a company, and fintech company in Indonesia is no exception. According to Statista, global fintech financing went from USD 59.2 billion and almost quadrupled to USD 320.2 billion in 2021. This upward trajectory is also evident in Indonesia which is constantly rising. In 2018 there were 46 fintech financing being done with a total valuation of USD 300 million.

A year after, the number of deals increased to 65 with a total valuation of USD 700 million. In 2020, the number of deals went down to 57 with a total valuation of USD 500 million, this could be seen as the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

After the temporary downfall, the numbers substantially increased to 97 deals worth USD 1.6 billion in 2021, tripling the previous numbers. Throughout the first half of 2022, the number of deals went down to 51 but the total valuation increased to USD 1.8 billion. This constant growth in investment shows the confidence of the market to the Indonesian fintech ecosystem. As Indonesia progresses closer in its quest to become one of the world’s biggest internet economies, fintech company in Indonesia will reportedly continue to prosper and excel.

4. SMEs

The Conversation suggests that there are more than 60 million SMEs in Indonesia. They contribute to 60% of the country’s economy and absorb 97% of the workforce. This shows that SMEs are one of the linchpins of the country’s economy, However, only 12% of them were able to get financing or bank loans. The Covid-19 pandemic made the situation worse, considering approximately 50% or 30 million SMEs were closing because demands are diminishing. This becomes a huge opportunity for fintech company in Indonesia, especially for those operating in loan services/P2P lending. With millions of SMEs looking to bounce back, the fintech ecosystem will be back to its absolute peak.

How can Double M help?

Fintech company in Indonesia play a huge part in Indonesia’s economy. Double M can help you establish your own fintech company or link you with existing fintech company for business matchmaking.

The Best Skill Investors Have – What exactly is the point of investing?  Though there is a lot to be gained by pursuing riches of another kind: wisdom, there is rarely one apparent solution. Solid investing abilities precede computer models and giddy commentators, and they have survived for a reason: successful stock market gurus have put the ideas to the test. It also emphasizes that going it alone is not recommended.

Become a student for your life

“Don’t tell us how he spent his money, tell us how he made money,” a younger Warren Buffett reportedly urged a tour guide after touring a tycoon’s house. Buffett, despite being a billionaire, continues to research investment.

Best Skill Investors Have : Put a place on value investment

Buffett’s concept of wealth is also based on value investing, where assets that are undervalued are bought for the long term. Kurt M. Westfield, director of WC Equity Group in Tampa, Florida, said, “This has long been a technique investors use to find growth.” Westfield is looking for an undervalued commercial building.

Keep up with the news, but do not make it a daily grind

News addicts who also happen to be market junkies are not necessarily the best investors. However, keeping a watch on new Government regulations and acts, for example, might shift the scales in favor of would-be stockholders who stand to profit. Here is an example from today: Interest rates are on the rise. Stocks in industries like banking might climb if the Federal Reserve raises interest rates. 

Best Skill Investors Have :  Manage Yourself and Lead the Team

Pro investors understand who they are, how they can maximize their strengths, how to outsource their shortcomings, and why they invest. They have a big picture in mind for how they want to affect the world, their communities, and their family. They want their investment vehicles to have meaning for them. They are there to help others. True leaders don’t simply inspire followers; they also inspire others to become leaders and best skill investors have.

Those are some of the skills that the best investor should have, if you want to know how to enter the South East Asia market, Double M can help you.

Bank Account in Indonesia – If you plan to stay in Indonesia at a certain time as an expatriate, or perhaps even in a long term, then it is recommended to open an Indonesian bank account. Although this is not a necessity, it will make life easier for you. By having a local bank account, you can easily manage and do all sort of financial activities such as bill payments, salary transfers and cash withdrawals.  

Local banks offer savings and checking accounts in Rupiah or a foreign currency (usually in US Dollars). In addition, banks also offer term deposits, credit cards and foreign exchange services. After checking which bank services you need, the next step is to open a bank account. Before applying for a local bank account, it is advised that you should check what documents are needed. You can check this by visiting the bank website or the branch directly. However, these are some of the documents you likely need:

1. Valid passport
2. Temporary resident permit (KITAS)
3. Proof of address in Indonesia
4. Residency contacts
5. Domicile letter
6. If you have work-related KITAS, a recommendation letter from your employer and your employer’s NPWP (tax identification number).
7. Your NPWP (tax identification number).

Choosing the Right Bank

Based on the banking statistics of the Financial Services Authority, in 2021 there are 107 commercial banks operating in Indonesia. With that number of banks, it is certainly difficult to choose the most suitable. Therefore, to make it easier for you, here we provide 3 bank recommendations for expatriates.

1. OCBC NISP

This is one of the oldest banks in Indonesia and is currently owned by OCBC Singapore. OCBC NISP offers a multi-currency account, Tanda 360 Plus. Tanda 360 Plus can manage 12 currencies in one account. The 12 currencies are the following.

1. Rupiah (IDR),
2. US Dollar (USD)
3. Singaporean Dollar (SGD)
4. Japanese Yen (JPY)
5. Euro (EUR)
6. Australian Dollar (AUD)
7. Pound Sterling (GBP)
8. Hong Kong Dollar (HKD)
9. Switzerland Swiss (CHF)
10. Canadian Dollar (CAD)
11. New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
12. Chinese Offshore Yuan (CNH).

2. CIMB Niaga

This bank is a joint venture between CIMB Group Malaysia and Bank Niaga. CIMB Niaga has a wide network and presence in ASEAN countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, Philippines, Brunei, Laos, and Myanmar. If you are an expatriate who often travels around South East Asia, this will facilitate your financial activities.

3. Bank Mandiri

Mandiri is currently the state-owned bank with the largest assets. The advantage of using Mandiri is their huge network of offices and the terms and conditions for inter-bank transfers, both domestic and overseas, are easier than other banks.

How can DOUBLE M help you?

Double M is providing market entry solution services in South-East Asia. Should you have any inquiries, please contact us at info@double-m.co