Indonesia accelerates tariff talks with US

Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has met with U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent to promote tariff talks with the U.S.

At the meeting in Washington, D.C. on April 24, Hartarto reiterated Jakarta’s commitment to addressing the U.S. trade deficit with Indonesia, the Indonesian media reported.

The minister stressed Indonesia’s support for fair and transparent trade. The country plans to increase imports of essential U.S. goods, including oil, gas, and agricultural products.

He affirmed Indonesia's openness to investment and willingness to strengthen strategic cooperation with the U.S. in sectors such as critical minerals, digital economy, and finance.

Indonesia is also working to simplify domestic regulations that could hinder bilateral trade and investment, particularly regarding import licences and local content requirements, Hartarto said, expressing his hope that detailed discussions will be concluded within 60 days.

Meanwhile, Bessent welcomed Indonesia’s swift engagement following new U.S. tariffs announced on April 2, describing it as a sign of Jakarta’s strong commitment to the bilateral relations.

The U.S. also expressed interest in enhancing global cooperation with Indonesia, including within the G20 and OECD frameworks.