Jakarta – The government is preparing to form a Deregulation Task Force to cut various regulations that are considered to hinder the smooth flow of exports and imports, especially in the context of trade relations with the United States (US). This task force is able to spearhead the simplification of technical regulations that have so far made things difficult for business actors, while strengthening Indonesia’s bargaining position in the global market.
This strategic step is also part of Indonesia’s economic diplomacy to lobby the US government to revoke the 32% import tariff on a number of products from Indonesia.
“Earlier, the Coordinating Minister for the Economy (Airlangga Hartarto) explained that a Deregulation Task Force team will be formed,” said Trade Minister Budi Santoso to the media.
The Deregulation Task Force will be tasked with evaluating and harmonizing cross-sector technical regulations, to make them more efficient and in line with the needs of business actors. Although it has not been officially announced, its formation is currently in the finalization stage under the coordination of the Coordinating Ministry for the Economy.
“It is being prepared at the Coordinating Ministry for the Economy, we are also waiting,” said Budi.
Budi explained that the concept of the Task Force will be discussed across ministries and institutions (K/L) to ensure that the deregulation steps are comprehensive. “The concept is, after the Task Force is formed, then we, we will gather together first,” he added.
The formation of this Task Force confirms the government’s commitment to facing global challenges and responding to international market expectations. In the context of trade relations with the US, deregulation is key to making Indonesian products more competitive.
“Later, when the Task Force has been formed, we will meet. Yes, what should we do, I mean what kind of evaluation is it. So we will wait first,” said Budi further.
Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Airlangga Hartarto said that the Deregulation Task Force will move according to President Prabowo Subianto’s direction. Several regulations that will be deregulated refer to the government’s strategic policies going forward, including opening market access and creating a healthier investment climate.
Meanwhile, President Prabowo Subianto himself chose a peaceful approach in responding to high tariffs from US President Donald Trump. Instead of responding with protective policies, Prabowo actually pushed for the opening of the domestic market for US products. His party even instructed the elimination of quota-based import restrictions and asked for the regulation on local content levels (TKDN) to be reviewed.
This step is considered a form of pragmatism in maintaining bilateral trade relations without sacrificing Indonesia’s long-term interests.
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