Indonesia is currently in a whirlwind of ever-evolving economic and business dynamics, influenced by a series of government policies and market fluctuations. Various important issues, ranging from global tax regulations and domestic fiscal policy to the condition of the manufacturing sector and regional finance, have significant implications for businesses, investors, and the wider public.
Fiscal and economic policy in Indonesia shows complex dynamics, with the government attempting to balance economic stimulation with an increase in state revenue. To boost the property sector growth, the Ministry of Finance extended the 100% VAT discount on housing until the end of 2025. On the other hand, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) granted "qualified" status to Indonesia for its Minister of Finance Regulation (PMK) concerning the global minimum tax, signifying the country's commitment to international tax regulations.
Economic challenges are also apparent in other sectors. The manufacturing sector continues to show a sluggish performance despite being injected with various incentives, partly due to weakening global demand and rising production costs. Meanwhile, local governments face a deep fiscal dilemma, where 104 regions have raised their Land and Building Tax (PBB-P2) rates to cover budget efficiencies, even though the majority of regions are still heavily reliant on fund transfers from the central government.
This condition highlights the need for closer policy coordination. On one side, the central government provides incentives to stimulate the economy, while on the other, local governments must find ways to increase their Original Regional Revenue (PAD). The fiscal dependency of regions on the center and the sluggish manufacturing sector indicate that structural issues still need to be resolved so that economic growth can be more equitable and sustainable.
These various policies and economic conditions have a significant impact on business players, investors, and the public. The "qualified" status for the global minimum tax indicates that multinational companies must prepare for the implementation of this PMK. The extension of the housing VAT discount creates opportunities for property investors and developers, while the PBB-P2 rate increase in 104 regions will raise the cost of property asset ownership. The reliance of regions on the central budget and the weakening manufacturing sector signal structural challenges that require long-term solutions from the government.
These news items underscore the complexity of market and regulatory dynamics in Indonesia. Investors and business actors must fully understand the changes in tax policies and fiscal incentives to optimize their strategies. These changes also highlight the importance for local governments to enhance fiscal independence and support the real sector, in order to create a healthier and more sustainable business ecosystem.