Jakarta. Indonesia is in the process of simplifying its export access and cutting red tape to boost growth, according to President Prabowo Subianto.

Speaking at the 2026 Indonesia Economic Outlook on Friday, Prabowo laid out Indonesia's economic policies in detail.

"We will facilitate exports, open ports and airports for direct exports. We will simplify regulations to stimulate economic activity," Prabowo told the room, which was packed with foreign dignitaries, businesspeople, and bank representatives, among others.

Chief Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto said that increased exports could put Indonesia on the right track to an 8% growth. Throughout last year, non-oil and gas exports rose 7.66%. Exports of crude palm oil and derivatives (HS.15) rose 27.94%, accounting for the largest share of 12.73% of total exports. Shipments of iron and steel (HS.27) also rose 8.41%, accounting for 10.37% of what the country had shipped overseas. 

From a sector standpoint, the manufacturing industry contributed 10.77% to the export value in 2025. The sector also rose 14.47%, the government reported. China-bound exports rose 7.11% and registered a 24.02% share. Indonesia's shipments to the US also jumped 16.66%, making up 11.47% of total exports.

"Our US exports grew despite US President Donald Trump's dynamic tariff policies," Airlangga said.

Business lobby Apindo thanked the government for implementing a series of economic policies to withstand the global uncertainty, including Trump's tariff salvo and regional conflicts. However, businesses remain worried about uncompetitive logistics costs. 

"This is part of what is known as a high-cost economy," Shinta was quoted as saying in a press statement.

According to Shinta, the private sector is ready to partner with the government in navigating the difficult situation caused by global pressures. However, the collaboration requires a commitment to regulatory simplification and policy certainty.

Apindo welcomed the group's recent meeting with Prabowo, whom they considered to have a great understanding of the various issues affecting businesses, including the bureaucratic matters.

Boosting exports and national competitiveness relies not only on trade pacts but also on structural reforms within the country. Debottlenecking, deregulation, procedural simplification, improving logistics efficiency, and production costs remain pivotal.

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