Jakarta (ANTARA) - Deputy Chairman of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Eddy Soeparno emphasized the need for the government to take proactive measures in responding to the reciprocal tariffs imposed by the US government.
According to Soeparno, one of the proactive steps that must be taken is to strengthen trade diplomacy to safeguard the national economy from negative impacts.
"We must not let our domestic industries suffer even more," Soeparno stated here on Saturday.
He pointed out that several manufacturers in sectors, such as sports footwear, electronics, and textiles, had already shut down.
Hence, he emphasized that engaging in trade diplomacy could be instrumental in obtaining tariff exemptions for several of Indonesia's flagship export products.
Besides bolstering trade diplomacy, he underscored the need for the government to expand Indonesia's export markets.
"At the start of the administration, President Prabowo has acted quickly by joining and becoming a permanent member of BRICS. Now, it is time to leverage our status as a permanent member of BRICS to expand export markets," he remarked.
He explained that this measure is vital so that Indonesia's trade balance is not adversely affected by protectionist policies from certain countries.
Furthermore, he stressed that the government still needs to enhance the competitiveness of national products.
"Domestic industries must be more innovative and efficient. The government needs to provide incentives for strategic industries so that we can compete globally, regardless of the policies of other countries," he stated.
Earlier, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Wednesday (April 2) imposing reciprocal tariffs on several countries.
As a result of this policy, all imports originating from Indonesia will be subjected to a tariff of 32 percent by the US government.
