The Ministry of Industry (Kemenperin) has reported a 43% surge in Textile and Textile Products (TPT) imports following the implementation of Permendag 8/2024 regulations from May 17, 2024. This increase reversed a previous decline observed earlier in the year, with imports rising sharply to 194.87 thousand tons in May 2024 from 136.36 thousand tons in April. The new regulations, which eased import restrictions compared to Permendag 36/2023, requiring Technical Considerations (Pertek) for only selected commodities, have raised concerns about their impact on domestic industry stability and employment. Reny Yanita, Acting Director General of Chemical, Pharmaceutical, and Textile Industries (IKFT) at Kemenperin, emphasized the potential negative consequences of the policy shift.
She highlighted that Permendag 36/2023 had stricter controls aimed at safeguarding domestic industries, whereas Permendag 8/2024's relaxed approach has led to increased layoffs in the textile sector. The ministry advocates reconsidering import policies to better balance economic objectives with industry protection goals, aiming to mitigate adverse effects on employment and sectoral stability. The initiative to establish Taman Buah Puspantara in Suko Mulyo Village, Nusantara, demonstrates collaboration between the Oil and Gas upstream sector and the Nusantara Capital Region Authority (OIKN). This project, following a memorandum of understanding signed between SKK Migas and OIKN, aims to enhance green spaces and support local agriculture. It reflects a commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship, aligning with Indonesia's strategic goals under the IOG 4.0 Plan, including efforts towards achieving net zero emissions by 2060. The project's long-term vision includes creating a center for fruit cultivation to enhance food security and foster economic benefits for local communities, while also providing a green sanctuary for leisure and healing amidst urban life.
