Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, has dismissed speculations that the country’s proposed import duties of up to 200 percent on certain products are aimed at specific nations. Speaking in Jakarta on July 6, Luhut emphasized that the measures are based solely on national interest.
“We are not targeting any particular country, especially China. All measures are taken based on our national interest,” Luhut stated, addressing concerns about the potential impact on Indonesia’s trade relations.
He explained that the extension of tariffs already imposed on several textile products is part of the government’s strategy to protect domestic industries. “These tariffs apply to all imported goods, regardless of their origin,” Luhut noted, as reported by Antara News.
Luhut also highlighted the importance of China as a strategic and comprehensive partner for Indonesia in trade and investment. “We are committed to maintaining this relationship through ongoing communication and dialogue regarding policy changes,” he added.
Earlier, Indonesia’s Trade Minister Zulkifli Hasan had proposed imposing higher import duties on textile products, specifically mentioning China, as a means to protect local industries. This had sparked concerns over potential tensions between the two significant trading partners in the region.
Luhut’s remarks aim to reassure both domestic and international stakeholders that Indonesia’s import tariff policies are designed to bolster the national economy without disrupting established trade partnerships. The government seeks to strike a balance between supporting local industries and honoring international trade commitments.
Indonesia continues to engage with its global partners to ensure that trade policies are mutually beneficial and contribute to regional economic stability.
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Indonesia says its import tariff policy not targeted at any country
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