Indonesia Grapples with Influx of Cheap Chinese Goods

The influx of low-cost Chinese products in Indonesia is disrupting local manufacturers and leading to factory closures and job losses. The Indonesian government is considering imposing up to 200% tariffs on some Chinese imports to protect domestic industries. Despite this, the measure risks provoking economic backlash from China, Indonesia's largest trading partner.

Indonesia is facing an influx of low-cost Chinese goods, drastically affecting local manufacturers and leading to widespread factory closures and job losses. The government is considering implementing tariffs up to 200% on certain Chinese imports to safeguard domestic industries.

Trade Minister Zulkifli Hasan announced the measures in July following a protest by workers in Jakarta. The government aims to help local industries survive, even as China remains Indonesia's largest trading partner with bilateral trade exceeding $127 billion in 2023.

The surge of Chinese goods arises partly from ongoing U.S.-China trade friction, and the issue is being felt across Asia as countries implement free trade agreements. The Indonesian government has set up a task force to monitor imports, however, challenges persist as domestic and international trade dynamics evolve.

(With inputs from agencies.)