Downstream policies, especially mining commodities, have resulted in an increase in export output, which in turn has improved the trade balance. President Joko Widodo believes that the trade balance between Indonesia and China will be in a surplus this year. "Our trade balance. I remember, 2012 with China minus USD 7.7 billion. In 2021, because we have exported iron and steel, our deficit will be minus USD 2.4 billion. This year, I make sure that with China plus, we have a surplus,” said Jokowi while giving a briefing to the leadership of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Jakarta, yesterday. Jokowi gave an example that the result of the policy to stop exports of crude nickel has created a jump in trade value for Indonesia. According to Jokowi, about 5-7 years ago nickel only produced exports worth USD 1.1 billion or around IDR 16 trillion and that figure jumped to USD 20.8 billion or around IDR 306 trillion in 2021. “Exports more or less USD 35-USD 40 billion because the derivatives have not been completed.” Jokowi said. Jokowi revealed that when he first imposed the policy to stop exports of raw nickel, there were many reactions, including from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which stated that Indonesia was not ready. Therefore, with the success that has been shown, the President invites the ranks of Kadin to take an active role in encouraging the downstreaming of the mining industry. “Please draw this to other raw materials, not just nickel. Ladies and gentlemen, if you are not ready, join, find a partner. It's very easy now in Indonesia, asked the Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Daily crowds of people come wanting to invest, so just invite them, whether they're from Korea, either from Japan, or from China, or from Europe. Because of what? Everyone is afraid that we will stop exporting our raw materials,” he explained.

Jokowi believes that in the end, entrepreneurs from these countries will have no other choice but to bring their industry to Indonesia and that Kadin members should be able to continue to play an active role. “They don't have a choice, like it or not, they must come here, build their industry here. Well, that invites to join. I have a permit for this, mine is several million tons or several hectares. Join them because we really need technology. We also need investment so there is capital inflow,” he concluded.

Source: https://wartaekonomi.co.id/read438519/jokowi-hilirisasi-dongkrak-kinerja-ekspor-pertambangan