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Does every item I sell have to be subject to VAT?

Kamis, 14 Agustus 2025
Cahyadi
Cahyadi
Jakarta

Good morning, I am Cahyadi, a small business owner who has just started a grocery store. Recently, I have often heard about VAT. Does every item I sell have to be subject to VAT? How can I know which goods should be subject to VAT, and how do I calculate it? I would appreciate your explanation. Thank you.

Irfan Gunawan
Irfan Gunawan
Senior Tax Consultant
Answer:

Good morning, thank you for your question.

Value Added Tax (VAT) is a tax imposed on the consumption of goods or services within the country. In principle, all goods and services are subject to VAT, except those specifically exempted by law.

Goods and Services Subject to VAT
In general, most of the goods and services you sell in your grocery store, such as packaged food, beverages, and household supplies, are classified as Taxable Goods (BKP). However, there are certain goods and services that are not subject to VAT, including:

  • Basic necessities that are essential to the public (e.g., rice, salt, and sugar),
  • Medical health services,
  • Social services,
  • Postal services using stamps,
  • Financial services (e.g., banking).
 

How to Calculate VAT
Currently, the VAT rate in Indonesia is 11%. VAT is calculated based on the selling price of goods or services.

Example: If you sell a pack of coffee for Rp10,000, then the VAT you must collect from the buyer is:
VAT = Selling Price × 11%
VAT = Rp10,000 × 11%
VAT = Rp1,100

So, the price you offer to the buyer is Rp11,100 (Rp10,000 for the goods + Rp1,100 VAT).

As an entrepreneur, you are obliged to collect, deposit, and report the VAT you have collected to the government. However, this obligation only applies if your annual business turnover exceeds the threshold set for becoming a Taxable Entrepreneur (PKP).

To ensure whether you are already classified as a PKP and required to collect VAT, you may consult further with the nearest Tax Service Office (KPP).

I hope this explanation is helpful. If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask again."

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