Today's Headlines in Indonesia

The Today's Headlines section of Indonesia Investments is a daily updated section which contains the latest information with regard to topics that are currently causing headlines in Indonesia's media. Most of our headlines will 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.

  • Income Tax on Imported Goods Raised to 7.5% to Limit Indonesian Imports

    In order to improve the country's trade balance (particularly to curb the large current account deficit), the government of Indonesia will raise income tax on imported products through the issuance of a new ministerial regulation (issued by the Finance Ministry). Currently, there are two income tax tariffs on imported goods (see below). According to Finance Minister Chatib Basri, goods that will fall under the new regulation are consumption goods (except for food products). The new income tax tariff is expected to be implemented next week.

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  • Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) Studying IPO Adjustments

    The Financial Services Authority of Indonesia (Otoritas Jasa Keuangan, abbreviated OJK) is studying the possibility to raise the minimum ratio of shares that has to be offered to the public for an initial public offering (IPO) to 30 percent. Currently, a company that conducts an IPO on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) needs to offer at least 10 percent of its enlarged capital to the public. Previously, the stock exchange had suggested to raise the minimum ratio to 20 percent. However, the OJK seems eager to push the boundary higher.

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  • Profile of Summarecon Agung: A Leading Indonesian Property Developer

    The company profile of Summarecon Agung (SMRA) has been added to our catalogue of Indonesian Companies in the Business Section. Summarecon Agung is an Indonesian real estate construction and development company. Having around 40 years of experience, the company is one of the leading property firms in Indonesia, particularly with regard to township development. Its projects include residential as well as commercial development (supported by infrastructure and facilities), shopping malls, hotels and golf courses.

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  • In Anticipation of Tapering, Bank Indonesia May Raise its BI Rate Again

    Several analysts expect that the central bank of Indonesia (Bank Indonesia) will raise its key interest rate (BI rate) again in the first Semester of 2014 in order to anticipate the winding down of the Federal Reserve's monthly USD $85 billion stimulus program (quantitative easing). Currently, the BI rate is set at 7.50 percent but analysts say that the market should be prepared for a hike to 8.0 percent in the first half of 2014. Between June and November 2013, Bank Indonesia has already raised its benchmark interest rate from 5.75 to 7.50 percent.

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Today's Headlines