Kadin supports strategic steps in responding to US reciprocal tariffs

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) supports the government's strategic steps in response to the reciprocal tariffs by the United States (US) and its efforts to negotiate with the US government.

"Kadin supports the government's decision to prepare various strategic measures to face the US reciprocal tariffs and to negotiate with the US government," Kadin Chairman Anindya Novyan Bakrie stated here on Friday.

Bakrie emphasized that maintaining robust communication with the US government at various levels, including dispatching a high-level delegation to Washington DC for negotiations, is the right move.

The US is a strategic business partner for Indonesia, as reflected in the trade balance and investments between the two countries, he stated.

"I believe we can negotiate with the US, among other reasons, due to Indonesia's geopolitical and geo-economic position. I see President Trump's statement as an opening statement, meaning the door for negotiations is still open," Bakrie stated.

According to Bakrie, Indonesia's position is very strategic in the Pacific region. Besides being part of ASEAN's economic power, Indonesia is also a key member of APEC.

He asserted that Indonesia, as a country with the world's largest Muslim population and a leader among non-aligned nations, is certainly a factor for consideration by Trump.

The Kadin chairman underscored the need for appointing a figure to act as Indonesia's envoy to the US to enhance bilateral communication.

During President Prabowo Subianto's visit to the US in November 2024, Kadin Indonesia met with the US Chamber of Commerce to anticipate shifts in President Trump's economic policy.

"In early May, in coordination with the government, Kadin Indonesia plans to go to the US to follow up on cooperation with the US Chamber of Commerce and attend several business or economic conferences to respond to the latest developments," Bakrie revealed.