Soybean Association Ensures Resipprocal Tariffs Of 19 Percent Don't Disrupt Domestic Supply

JAKARTA - The Indonesian Soybean Association (Akindo) has ensured that the imposition of tariffs for importing Indonesian products to the United States (US) to 19 percent will not interfere with the domestic soybean industry.

Akindo chairman Hidayatullah Suralaga said that so far, the government has imposed a 0 percent tariff for soybean importation, including from the US, based on the principle of the Most-Foured Nation (MFN).

"The 19 percent tariff, right, for Indonesian products that enter America. Meanwhile, US soybeans have long been subject to 0 percent MFN tariffs. So, maybe there is no effect on the condition of soybeans in the country," Hidayatullah told VOI, Wednesday, July 30.

Hidayatullah assessed that the reduction in tariffs was the result of the hard work of the Indonesian trade negotiating team which was coordinated by the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs.

"This reinforces the government's commitment to take sides with tofu and tempe craftsmen," he said.

Akindo stated its commitment to maintain the stability of the national soybean supply, both in terms of volume and quality, to support the sustainability of the domestic tofu and tempeh industry.

Even so, Hidayatullah did not provide further information regarding domestic soybean stocks. However, he ensures that the domestic soybean stock is in sufficient condition.

"So far, domestic soybean stocks are always quite available," he explained.

Selain itu, Akindo juga mendorong pengembangan pasar ekspor baru untuk produk olahan kedelai.

Langkah tersebut sejalan dengan tren global yang semakin mengarah pada konsumsi produk nabati dan sumber protein alternatif.

"Kami berharap Indonesia dapat membuka pasar ekspor baru untuk produk olahan kedelai di kemudian hari," pungkasnya.

In addition, Akindo also encourages the development of a new export market for processed soybean products.

The move is in line with global trends that increasingly lead to consumption of plant products and alternative sources of protein.

"We hope that Indonesia can open a new export market for processed soybean products in the future," he concluded.