Indonesia Holds 50 Percent of ASEAN Market, Minister Says
29 July 2014 13:20 WIB
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Minister of Finance Chatib Basri, said that Indonesia has the biggest market potential in Southeast Asia, which constitutes 50 percent of the region’s market. This condition must be considered as a strategic opportunity in welcoming the upcoming ASEAN Economic Community (AEC).
"Many countries finally invested in Indonesia. This needs to be seen as a huge opportunity," said Chatib yesterday.
He explained that although imports are still higher than exports, it does not limit the fact that Indonesia can emerge as one of the major regional player. "It all depends on the needs. If domestic goods are scarce, then it needs to be imported. If there is a surplus, then we export. There is nothing to fear," he said.
According to data from the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM), the value of investment realization during the second quarter of 2014 has increased by 16 percent to Rp 116,2 trillion, which consists of Domestic Direct Investments (Rp 38,2 trillion) and Foreign Direct Investments (Rp 78 trillion).
"This is excellent. But usually the effects can be felt within six months from now," said Chatib.
DEWI SUCI RAHAYU
