Prabowo Prioritizes Workers' Protection In Trade Scheme With US

President Prabowo Subianto when delivering information to reporters after returning from a foreign visit at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base, Jakarta, Wednesday (16/7/2025). (ANTARA/Mentari Dwi Gayati)

JAKARTA - President Prabowo Subianto stated that the interests of the people and protection of national workers are a top priority in every international trade cooperation agreement, including with the United States.

This was conveyed after returning from an overseas visit at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base, Jakarta, Wednesday afternoon, answering questions regarding Indonesia's decision to waive US export tax rates to Indonesia.

"Everything we have calculated, we all negotiate, we also think that what is important for me is my people. The important thing is, I have to protect our workers," he said as quoted by ANTARA, Wednesday, July 16.

He emphasized that even though Indonesia is open in economic cooperation, the state still has national boundaries and interests that must be maintained.

"This is our offer, we can't afford to give more," he said.

The President also expressed optimism for the national economic conditions that are in a strong and stable position.

"I am very optimistic, our economy is in a strong condition, the conditions are good. So whatever happens, we will be strong," he said.

As previously reported, US President Donald Trump stated that the import rate on Indonesian products was lowered from 32% to 19% after direct negotiations with President Prabowo.

This agreement also includes Indonesia's commitment to buy US $ 15 billion in energy, agricultural products US $ 4.5 billion, and 50 Boeing aircraft.

Indonesia also agreed to remove tariff and non-tariff barriers for US products.

Trump said the deal opened full access to the Indonesian market for the US for the first time.