"We are concerned about the impact of the US reciprocal tariffs on labor-intensive industries, such as textile and garment, footwear, as well as the palm oil industry and its derivative products," she stated.
Putri made these remarks during the Public Forum: Regional Response to Trump 2.0 event, which was monitored online here on Thursday.
She highlighted that labor-intensive industries are not only export-driven but also vital for Indonesia's employment.
In addition, these industries play a crucial role in the development of rural areas.
To respond to the US reciprocal tariffs, President Prabowo Subianto has directed his cabinet to adopt a strategy emphasizing diplomacy, regional solidarity, and market diversification for long-term solutions.
"We value bilateral relations and trade with the US. We also believe that open dialogue is the best way to avoid escalating trade tensions in the future," she remarked.
Through the dialogue, Indonesia aims to clarify the scope of the US reciprocal tariff policy and discuss the mutual losses caused by it.
"The losses are not only threatening Indonesian exporters but also importers and consumers in the US," she remarked.
On April 2, 2025, US President Donald Trump announced "reciprocal" tariffs on several countries, with Indonesia hit with a 32-percent tariff. The Trump administration also imposed a 10 percent baseline tariff on imports from all countries.
Other Southeast Asian countries affected by the tariff include the Philippines, Singapore, Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia. The US has levied tariffs of 17 percent, 10 percent, 49 percent, 46 percent, 36 percent, and 24 percent, respectively, on those countries.
Nevertheless, on April 9, Trump announced a 90-day pause for reciprocal tariffs for several countries, except China, whose tariff has been increased to 125 percent.
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Translator: Putu Indah, Raka Adji
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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