DHL comments on Batam<\/p>\n
I refer to the article in the April 19 edition of The Jakarta
\nPost titled Government to divide Batam into free trade enclaves.<\/p>\n
The government should be lauded for taking this step in the
\nright direction. As the world's leading provider of express and
\nlogistics solutions, we know from experience that such a move
\nbrings tremendous long-term benefits in the form of greater
\ninvestment, improved competitiveness in export markets and, in
\nmany cases, increased foreign exchange earnings from a buoyant
\nexport industry.<\/p>\n
However, while the implementation of free trade enclaves on
\nBatam is a positive step, it would be far more beneficial and
\nefficient for the whole of Batam to be designated a free trade
\narea. This would eliminate many administrative problems and
\nconcerns for businesses already operating there as well as
\npotential investors.<\/p>\n
Furthermore, we also believe a holistic view must be taken
\nin relation to creating a nationwide business environment that is
\ntruly conducive to business. Some recent developments run
\ncontrary to this.<\/p>\n
For example, with effect from May 1, 2004, businesses will
\nhave to bear additional costs in the form of charges for import
\nand other customs clearance. In addition to making it more
\nexpensive for business, these charges are counterproductive, add
\nextra administration and make life more complicated for the
\nbusiness community.<\/p>\n
Another example is the current 3-in-1 policy which has further
\naggravated the already severe traffic congestion in Jakarta. It
\nis ironic that although it only takes a little over one hour for
\na shipment to arrive by air in Jakarta from Singapore, delivering
\nthat same shipment to its final destination in the city could
\ntake several hours because of the city's traffic congestion.<\/p>\n
As a company with a core mission to support the free flow of
\ngoods through express and logistics solutions, we hope policies
\nwill be formulated that are both consistent and comprehensive.
\nThis is imperative if the many benefits resulting from the free
\ntrade zones are to be protected.<\/p>\n
ALAN CASSELS<\/p>\n
Senior Technical Adviser<\/p>\n
PT Birotika Semesta\/DHL Express<\/p>\n
Jakarta<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/dhl-comments-on-batam-1447893297", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }