The Today's Headlines section of Indonesia Investments is a regularly updated section which contains the latest information with regard to topics that are currently causing headlines in Indonesia's media. Most of our headlines cover political, economic and social matters. As a consequence of their recent nature, these topics may not have crystallized fully yet and can, therefore, lack a profound analysis. For publications with a more in-depth understanding of subjects, we refer you to our News, Financial or Business columns.
Indonesia managed to rise sharply in the ranks of the World Bank's latest Logistics Performance Index (LPI). In the 2018 edition, which was released on Tuesday (24/07), Indonesia ranked 46th, up from 63rd in the preceding edition (released in 2016).
Imports of wheat into Indonesia only rose by 4 percent year-on-year (y/y) to 5.97 million tons in the first half of 2018. This very modest growth is below expectations. Moreover, it means that the trend of declining wheat imports into Indonesia (that started from 2016) continues. Subdued consumer purchasing power and the weak rupiah are blamed for these weak imports.
Events that are organized in the regions of Indonesia should be able to boost the local economies as a big number of domestic and foreign people come to visit the events. These visitors need a place to stay, eat & drink, and are usually interested in buying some local souvenirs. Hence, their money is injected in the local economy.
Negotiations related to the Indonesia-Australia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IA-CEPA) have entered the final phase. Iman Pambagyo, the Trade Ministry's International Trade Negotiations Director General, said both sides are currently finalizing the agreement. He added that around 85 percent of the agreement has been completed now and the deal is expected to be fully completed before the end of 2018.
