"Traditionally, Indonesia has implemented a lot of protectionist policies, such as creating restrictions and import tariffs to protect its own industries. However, this is short-term thinking. The real issue for places like Indonesia, which is similar to other emerging markets, is the ease of doing business. How easy is it to do business in Indonesia, regardless of international influences? Whether you're dealing with MSMEs or larger industries, the question remains the same. Anyone living in or attempting to do business in Indonesia knows it's very challenging. Import tariffs may address the issue temporarily, but for long-term solutions, the focus needs to shift towards fixing the system." - Gita Sjahrir
"One thing I think about, and I've seen happen in other countries with tariff structures, is that tariffs generally benefit medium and large enterprises, domestic conglomerates because they can handle the burden. However, micro and small businesses, which rely more on cheap imports, are disproportionately impacted. So, it's not an easy trade-off policy-wise. In a perfect world, having some tariffs could give your industry breathing room. During that timeframe, you set a specific amount and then stagger the withdrawal, for example, dropping it every two years. You tell your industry, 'You have 10 years to shape up.' This middle-of-the-road approach is discussed by economists but requires significant political messaging." - Jeremy Au
"The irony of a more globalized world is that every country also starts becoming more protectionist. When public policy doesn't grow or develop as fast as reality, you see this gap, like in fintech. The rise of fintech, crypto, and other movements shows that many countries can't keep up with policymaking for these alternative asset classes and payment modes because they can't develop and grow as fast. The same goes for globalization. The trade environment in our global ecosystem will change as people become more mobile and digitized, accessing information more freely. Many policymakers, often older than the populace they lead, struggle to bridge this information gap." - Gita Sjahrir
In this episode, Jeremy Au speaks on Indonesia: 200% China import tariffs, ransomware attacks on 282 agencies, and 27,000+ government apps consolidation with Gita Sjahrir.
Keywords: Indonesia, 200% China Import Tariffs, Ransomware Attacks 282 Agencies, 27000+ Government Apps Consolidation, Gita Sjahrir, Indonesia, China, VC, Women, Thought Leadership
