Jakarta, Olemah.com — The United States government has officially implemented a reciprocal tariff policy that will directly impact global trade, including with Indonesia. The policy raises concerns over potential disruptions to Indonesia’s export sector especially labor-intensive industries and mounting pressure on the domestic financial market.
The tariff decision was announced directly by US President Donald Trump in a speech on Thursday (April 3, 2025) early morning Indonesia time. Trump referred to the move as “Liberation Day” for the American economy. Under the new policy, the US will impose a 32% import tariff on Indonesian products tripling the previous base tariff of 10% applied to most other countries.
“This is a form of protection for our domestic economic interests. Countries that have long enjoyed trade surpluses must begin sharing the burden more fairly,” Trump said during a press conference at the White House.
Tariffs Close to China’s, Effective April 9
Indonesia is now listed among countries subject to special tariffs alongside China. For comparison, China now faces an additional 34% tariff, up from a previous base rate of 20%. For Indonesia, the base 10% tariff will take effect on April 5, 2025, while the 32% special tariff will be enforced starting April 9, 2025.
Direct Impact on Exports
Eisha Maghfiruha Rachbini, Program Director at the Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (Indef), explained that the new tariff policy will significantly affect Indonesia’s exports. “The United States is Indonesia’s second-largest export market after China, accounting for an average of 10.3% annually. A decline in exports to the US will be felt immediately, particularly in key strategic sectors,” she stated.
Labor-intensive industries such as textiles, footwear, and furniture—are especially vulnerable. These sectors rely heavily on the American market. Eisha added that the tariff hike will make Indonesian products less competitive compared to those from other countries, increasing the risk of a sharp drop in demand.
Finance Sector Also at Risk
The repercussions are expected to spill over into the financial sector as well. A decline in exports could hurt the trade balance, weaken the rupiah, and deplete foreign exchange reserves. “If not addressed properly, this pressure could ripple through the financial system and slow national economic growth,” Eisha warned.
Diplomacy Is Key
To navigate this challenge, Eisha emphasized the need for a coordinated diplomatic effort. She urged the Indonesian government to swiftly initiate bilateral talks with the United States to seek tariff exemptions or relief.
Additionally, engaging in multilateral platforms like the World Trade Organization (WTO) is crucial to push the US toward upholding the principles of fairness and free trade.
“Unilateral policies like this can cause global instability. Indonesia must raise its voice—not just for national interests, but also for a fair international trade system,” Eisha asserted.
Government Response Awaited
As of now, the Indonesian government through the Ministry of Trade and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has yet to issue an official statement regarding diplomatic steps to be taken. However, internal sources report that a comprehensive response strategy is currently being prepared.
Measures include consolidating export data, mapping affected sectors, and drafting legal arguments within the WTO framework. The government is also exploring the possibility of direct negotiations with the US.
This reciprocal tariff policy marks a new chapter in the global trade war, now extending to developing countries like Indonesia. The government and business actors must act quickly and strategically to ensure the national economy remains resilient amid rising external pressure.
(Sumber Beita: Harian Kompas)
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