WNAM REPORT: Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto has described the reciprocal tariff policy introduced by U.S. President Donald Trump as a move that has raised global concerns about the economic landscape.
Speaking at an economic discussion titled “Strengthening Indonesia’s Economic Resilience in the Midst of Trade Tariff Waves” in Jakarta on Tuesday, Prabowo expressed concern over the implications of the U.S. decision.
“Currently, we are witnessing how an economic superpower is shaking the world by imposing high tariffs on many countries—a move that has triggered global uncertainty. Many nations are in a state of anxiety,” he said.
Despite these concerns, Prabowo emphasized that his administration will remain calm in responding to U.S. policy shifts.
He reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to economic self-reliance, noting that the country’s founding fathers envisioned a strong and independent national economy.
“It should be noted that I, as well as this nation’s founding fathers, have consistently reminded us of the need to build our economy using our own strength,” he added.
On April 2, Trump announced a universal 10-percent tariff on all imported goods, set to take effect on April 5. He also introduced higher, country-specific tariffs—including a 32-percent rate on Indonesian products.
During the announcement, which he called “Liberation Day,” he claimed the policy was aimed at creating more domestic job opportunities.
In response, President Prabowo and Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto have begun engaging with ASEAN leaders to develop a coordinated regional response.
The Indonesian government also stated that it would pursue diplomatic channels, including negotiations with the U.S. administration, to address the situation.
According to the Ministry of Trade, Indonesia recorded a trade surplus of US$14.34 billion with the United States in 2024. Conversely, the U.S. logged a trade deficit of US$17.9 billion in bilateral trade during the same year.
