President of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, recently delivered a strong message to the Directorate General of Customs and Excise, emphasizing the government’s commitment to eradicating smuggling and questionable import practices. He stated that such activities have placed undue burdens on local businesses and the public, and called for an end to rent-seeking behavior in import activities.
During an Economic Dialogue event in Jakarta, Prabowo urged Customs to eliminate unnecessary procedures and crack down on illicit smuggling activities. Drawing from his military background, he emphasized the need for decisive action against those involved in such practices, stressing the importance of protecting the interests of the people.
Furthermore, Prabowo insisted on fair and non-discriminatory practices in the importation of raw materials, rejecting policies that favor only a select few large corporations. He highlighted the importance of ensuring that import privileges are not monopolized by a handful of companies, emphasizing the need for a level playing field in the import sector.
The president’s firm stance on combating import-related issues reflects his dedication to creating a more transparent and equitable trade environment. His calls for eliminating rent-seeking practices and promoting fairness in import activities are aimed at safeguarding the interests of local businesses and the public, ultimately working towards a more inclusive and just economy.
