The Indonesian Textile Association (API) is urging the immediate issuance of a new Ministry of Trade Regulation (Permendag) governing import policies and procedures, particularly concerning the textile and textile product (TPT) industry, with a focus on ready-made garments. API Chairman Jemmy Kartiwa Sastratmaja warned that the prolonged revision process of the current regulation could cause many TPT companies to collapse. He emphasized that the massive influx of imported goods, coupled with weak enforcement against illegal imports, is putting heavy pressure on local businesses. Without more protective regulations, he said, the industry risks a new wave of mass layoffs—especially in labor-intensive sectors that support millions of workers across the country.
Jemmy expressed strong appreciation for Trade Minister Budi Santoso’s efforts to push forward the revision of Permendag No. 8/2024, which is currently awaiting final administrative steps. The Minister has assured that the revised regulation will not lead to a surge of imports, particularly for products from strategic industries and labor-intensive manufacturing. According to Jemmy, accelerating the revision is not only critical for business certainty but also a necessary move to prevent a potential national employment crisis. He reiterated API’s support for the Trade Minister’s initiative and stressed the urgency of finalizing the new regulation.
