Facing Backlash, Trade Minister Says Import Policy Up for Possible Evaluation
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18 March 2024 11:47 WIB
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Minister of Trade Zulkifli Hasan (Zulhas) stated that he is still reviewing the evaluation or revision of Minister of Trade Regulation Number 36 of 2023 concerning the Import Policy. Zulhas said he would discuss the revision plan with the Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto. The recent import policy received backlash from the general public and business associations.
"We will discuss [the revision plan] first,” he said in Bogor on Monday, March 18, 2024.
Zulhas admitted that he had postponed the implementation of parts of the import policy due to negative feedback from the Indonesian public.
"So we will proceed with approved provisions, and re-discuss those rejected by the public. We will implement parts of the regulation [for now]," said Zulkifli in Jakarta, Sunday, March 17, 2024.
The implementation of MOT Regulation No. 36 of 2023 has been in effect since March 10, 2023. This regulation discusses the rearrangement of import policies by shifting import supervision from post-border to border and relaxation or ease of importing goods sent by Indonesian migrant workers. It also stipulates restrictions on imported goods carried by Indonesians traveling from abroad. In addition, it also regulates raw material import facilities for industries holding the importer-manufacturer identification number of Authorized Economic Operator status and main partners of customs.
On Thursday, March 14, 2024, Zulkifli said he would immediately discuss the possible evaluation or revision of the import policy. The Ministry of Trade admitted to listening to various complaints about import restrictions, which are considered burdensome for many groups.
Previously, Zulhas said that luggage for souvenirs would not be subject to taxes or import duties. But goods in large quantities and indicated to be resold will be subject to import duties.
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