http://www.thejakartapost.com/detailheadlines.asp?fileid=20060301.A02&irec=4 RI still has work to do, economists says Urip Hudiono, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The country's often gloomy business and economic front received a much-welcome boost this week, with several positive reviews from international agencies.

Investment incentive package finalized The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government has finalized a new package of policies aimed at boosting investment, including the provision of tax incentives for investors in the underdeveloped eastern part of the country and for local small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Other policies will include the streamlining of customs clearance procedures for capital goods, and simplifying the procedures for securing business visas by investors.

Lawmakers put tax reform on the back burner Rendi Akhmad Witular, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Lawmakers and tax officials are in no hurry to push through the much-anticipated reform of the country's tax regime, even as time runs out for its completion this year. While the pornography bill is the hot topic in the legislature, House Commission XI on financial affairs has yet to begin deliberation of proposed amendments to three tax laws aimed at helping lure badly needed investment into the country.

Govt exempts Hutchison, NTS from up-front payments The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Amid criticism of its failure to respect the sanctity of contract and uphold legal certainty, the government has decided to grant some relief, albeit temporarily, to two foreign-owned 3G operators as regards the demand they pay up-front fees.

Analysts say it's time to open up property sector Anissa S. Febrina, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta Giving foreign nationals greater property rights in Indonesia could absorb up to US$10 billion in potential investment and make the sector more resilient in times of crisis, a property analyst says. "The time is just right to give more access to foreigners.

Trade and Investment News, 27 February 2006 Written by Mahendra Siregar/ Hari S.noegroho Tuesday, 28 February 2006 Highlights Politics • Three members of a hard-line group arrested over violent demonstration on the US embassy • North Korea calls on Jakarta to mediate on its behalf Regions • The government gives an unequivocal statement that Aceh will not be split up • The new province of West Irian Jaya backed by Constitutional Court • Ambon’s business community to get back to work...