Decentralizing power, by shifting control from the central government to smaller local governments, is the will of the local population and can only be deemed progressive in a new democracy like Indonesia.But it is a new system fraught with problems.

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The cash-strapped government plans to broaden categories of goods subject to excise duty in response to an expanding state budget deficit and an intense campaign to reduce environmental hazards.

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Agustina Wayansari, The Jakarta Post Leading cement manufacturers expect demand for cement to grow at least 6 percent on the back of an improving economy and many large construction projects in regions this year.

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Indonesia stands to lose out on benefits from the planned free trade agreement (FTA) between the EU and ASEAN unless it improves its negotiation capacity and coordination, an official says.

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In a bid to expand the country's shipping industry, the government is set to wrap up a loan agreement worth around US$150 million from Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC).

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The local shipping industry requested more bank loans Monday to support the anticipated rise in shipping demand caused by a government policy banning foreign vessels from transporting goods between local ports.

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