Indonesia Eases Import Rules Ahead US Tariff Deadline

Indonesia is set to relax import restrictions on key goods and raw materials to streamline trade and improve its business environment ahead of a July 9 deadline for tariff negotiations with the United States. The policy changes target 10 major commodity groups, including fertilizers, forestry products, and plastics, aiming to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and overlapping regulations that have long frustrated traders. This move comes as the U.S. maintains a 32% tariff on Indonesian goods, with a significant $17.9 billion trade deficit reported in 2024. Meanwhile, Malaysia and Indonesia reaffirmed their commitment to ASEAN unity and regional stability during a recent high-level meeting, emphasizing cooperation amid global challenges such as Middle East conflicts and U.S. trade uncertainties. The two countries also agreed to resolve outstanding border issues to strengthen their strategic partnership. These developments reflect efforts by ASEAN members to enhance trade facilitation, address non-tariff barriers, and foster closer ties in the face of complex geopolitical and economic pressures.