The Indonesian business community has expressed strong support for the Ministry of Trade’s efforts to improve the country’s import trade system without foreign interference.
Erwin Taufan, Deputy Chairperson of the Indonesian National Importers’ Association (GINSI) and an official at the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN), emphasized this stance in response to recent criticism from the United States government.
The U.S. highlighted Jakarta’s Mangga Dua Market as a hotspot for the sale of counterfeit goods.
Taufan stated that the Ministry of Trade should not be swayed by external assessments—especially those lacking comprehensive data. Instead, he urged the Ministry to stay focused on achieving national economic growth targets set by President Prabowo, which aim for a 7–8% increase.
“Business actors must support the Ministry of Trade,” said Taufan. “We do not want such issues to create unnecessary economic disruption or undermine consumer confidence. Let the government implement its reforms without foreign intrusion or surveillance.”
He further explained that Indonesia already has sufficient regulations and oversight mechanisms in place to monitor the circulation of goods. The government also has a dedicated task force to evaluate, monitor, and take necessary actions against violations.
“We support the Minister of Trade’s call for the public to avoid buying pirated goods. This is an Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) issue, and it’s something we must address together,” he added.
Taufan also pointed out that under Law No. 20/2016 on Trademarks, Article 103 classifies trademark counterfeiting as a complaint-based offense.
“This means that only the brand owner or rights holder has the authority to file a report if another party is found producing or selling counterfeit versions of their brand,” Taufan explained.
Trade Minister Budi Santoso also responded to the U.S. government’s concerns regarding counterfeit products at Mangga Dua Market. In a statement to the media, he emphasized the importance of public participation in curbing piracy.
“The public can help reduce the circulation of pirated goods—one way is by simply not buying them,” said Minister Santoso, also encouraging Indonesians to prioritize local products.
The issue was raised in the 2025 National Trade Estimate (NTE) Report on Foreign Trade Barriers, published by the Office of the United States Trade Representative at the end of March. The report reflected ongoing concerns among U.S. businesses regarding counterfeit goods in Indonesia.