Alot Discusses RI-US Import Tariffs, Prabowo: Trump Negotiator Is Quite Hard

JAKARTA - President Prabowo Subianto said that the finalization of the import rate imposed by the United States (US) Government of 19 percent of products from Indonesia could be achieved after negotiations with US President Donald Trump which were considered tough.

"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 when giving a press statement at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force Base, Jakarta, Wednesday, July 16.

President Prabowo's statement relates to the import rates imposed on Indonesian products entering the US having decreased from 32 percent to 19 percent, after negotiations with President Trump.

Although the reduction in tariffs was significant, Prabowo initially tried to keep negotiating.

However, in the end, 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 said 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.