Benny Soetrisno, the Chairman of the Indonesian Exporters Association (GPEI), expressed confidence that the manufacturing sector in Central Java will continue to play a significant role in the region's economic structure. He highlighted key labor-intensive industries such as textiles, footwear, tobacco, phytopharmaceuticals, and furniture, which are strong in the region. Benny emphasized that promoting investment is a crucial step to improving the performance of the manufacturing sector. He explained that investment promotion would create a multiplier effect, leading to broader economic growth. Additionally, he pointed out the importance of improving industrial infrastructure, especially ports, to ensure the smooth flow of goods. According to Benny, a thriving manufacturing sector will increase job creation, raise tax revenues, and boost purchasing power, all of which will contribute to economic growth. This, in turn, will strengthen the country's export-import activities.
Regarding export activities, Benny addressed two critical issues that require immediate attention. First, he highlighted the overlapping regulations in export-import procedures, which often lead to shipment delays due to prolonged customs inspections. These delays can result in canceled orders, a significant setback for exporters. Benny urged for deregulation and the simplification of export-import processes, suggesting that the Omnibus Law on Job Creation could serve as a framework for policy implementation at the ministry, regulatory, and operational levels. He also pointed out the need to expand financing options for exporters, noting that many Indonesian exporters rely on foreign banks due to limited financing facilities available locally. He called for a greater role for domestic banks and institutions like the Indonesian Export Financing Agency (LPEI), which, according to Benny, still faces challenges that need to be addressed to fully support the growth of export activities.
