Espicom's in-depth pharmaceutical market reports are ideal for executives wanting to understand the key drivers in pharmaceutical markets and have access to a wealth of statistical data. Each report opens with an outlook section that provides analysis of the market, 5-year market forecasts, national data projections, market outlook and key developments such as regulation, pricing/reimbursement, intellectual property, health facilities and government policy. The report also provides extensive background information, population trends, health status, health expenditure, organisation & administration, hospital services, medical personnel, healthcare development, market access information, trade data for raw materials and finished products and essential industry contacts. Included with the report are 3 free quarterly updated outlook reports, enabling you to keep up to date with market developments for a year. The Indonesian market remains characterised by its complexity and competitiveness. Pharmaceuticals imported in finished form play only a small role in the market, being restricted to supplies of highly advanced products. Most requirements are locally manufactured using imported raw materials.

Prior to 1997, only Indonesian-owned companies were allowed to undertake import/export activities, wholesaling or retailing. This situation was liberalised at the behest of the IMF. In November 1997, overseas companies were allowed to engage in wholesaling activities, provided they first obtain a licence. In 1998, this relaxation was extended to the retailing of goods by foreign companies. It should be noted, however, that foreign companies are not allowed to both distribute and retail their products. Restrictions on the import/export of products still apply.

Indonesia's trade policies have become increasingly liberal in recent years, a move accelerated by the prescriptions of the IMF following the 1997 economic collapse. Tariffs have been reduced several times since 1996, and the whole tariff structure has been simplified. The system remains relatively costly and complex, however. Other major considerations include Indonesia's tax regime, which is complex despite reform, and the legal system, derived from Dutch colonial law.

In recent years, approval delays and the confidentiality of dossier data have been the main concerns of pharmaceutical multinationals operating in Indonesia. It is hoped that the latest restructuring of the drug regulatory system will address these concerns.