Tourism Minister Sandiaga Uno Backs New Policy on Import Restrictions

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Uno expressed support for the new import policy introduced by the Trade Ministry, which sets limits on imported goods purchased by travelers from abroad.

“We want to ensure that supporting products that are proudly made in Indonesia is a priority for the Indonesian people,” Sandiaga said at the Communication and Information Ministry building in Jakarta on Thursday, March 14, 2024.

The policy is outlined in the Trade Minister’s Regulation No. 36 of 2023 on import policies and regulations and has been in effect starting March 10, 2024. 

Sandiaga emphasized that this is a national movement to encourage the use of domestic products. Therefore, he appealed to Indonesian travelers to limit the imported goods or souvenirs they bring from abroad. 

“So what we want to say is that if you have to buy souvenirs, just buy them in Indonesia,” the minister said.

This is especially true if the item is available in Indonesia. “For example, Indonesian tourists visiting the Middle East for religious tourism can purchase goods or souvenirs that turn out to be available in Tanah Abang,” he added.

Sandiaga also encouraged Indonesians to travel domestically, as the country’s economy is primarily driven by domestic consumption. The ministry has also taken steps to improve interconnectivity and make ticket prices more affordable. 

AISYAH AMIRA WAKANG

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