Our challenges in the future are even greater. Because after all, this new electronic trading system has its own challenges
Jakarta (ANTARA) - In the era of digitalization, the system of online trading has become a challenge to consumer protection efforts as it is markedly different from conventional buying and selling, Trade Minister Muhammad Lutfi has said.



"Our challenges in the future are even greater. Because after all, this new electronic trading system has its own challenges," Lutfi said during an event at the National Consumer Protection Agency (BPKN) in Jakarta on Friday.



He emphasized the need for close inter-institutional cooperation for supporting Indonesia's economic growth as well as continuing to provide protection to consumers.



Currently, the government is trying to boost economic growth and bring it to the positive trajectory in order to get out of a recession, he noted.



To aid recovery efforts, all parties must remain disciplined in implementing health protocols to prevent transmission of COVID-19, he added.



"Please keep us disciplined, we cannot be careless. Hopefully, (as part of) our cooperation, BPKN and the Ministry of Trade (will continue to) work hand in hand to provide protection to consumers,” the Trade Minister said.



He also highlighted the absence of a spike in the price of goods and services during this year's Eid al-Fitr. According to the minister, this was also triggered by low purchasing power of the people.



Public consumption was still minus 2.3 percent in the first quarter of 2021, he pointed out.



During Friday’s event, chairman of BPKN, Rizal Halim, gave Eid Al-Fitr wishes and also offered an apology to stakeholders who are BPKN's partners.



"I wish you a happy Eid al-Fitr 1442 H. We apologize if there are mistakes in carrying out our duties," Rizal said. (INE)


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Translator: Aditya R, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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