Negotiations On US Import Tariffs Had Been Tough, Prabowo: Trump Is A Tough Negotiator

JAKARTA - Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto told the results of negotiations on import rates imposed by the United States (US) Government to Indonesia. The reason is, US President Donald Trump is a fairly tough negotiator.

The negotiations related to the import rates imposed on Indonesian products entering the US have decreased from 32 percent to 19 percent after negotiations with President Trump.

"I spoke with President Donald Trump, thank God there were finally tough negotiations. We also call them understanding their interests, they understand our interests and we agree," said President Prabowo quoting Antara.

Despite the significant reduction in tariffs, Prabowo initially tried to keep negotiating. However, finally the two leaders agreed that the import rate imposed by the US on Indonesian products was only 19 percent.

"Now, if I'm not mistaken, the tariff is from 32 percent, it's reduced to 19 percent. Yes, I'm still negotiating, I said he is a fairly tough negotiator too," said Prabowo.

When asked further about whether or not he was satisfied with the decline in import rates to 19 percent, the President replied jokingly.

"Yes, if you are satisfied, 0 percent," said Prabowo, laughing.

The President added that dialogue and negotiations would continue to balance the trade balance.

In addition, the Head of State also emphasized that all decisions taken have been carefully taken into account, including the protection of Indonesian workers as a top priority in every economic policy.