APBN April 2026 Data Solid as Economist Forecasts 2.9% Safe Deficit

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The Ministry of Finance (MoF) reported that the 2026 State Budget (APBN) recorded a deficit of Rp164.4 trillion, or 0.64% of GDP, in April 2026. This figure is lower than the 0.93% deficit recorded in March 2026.

Global Market Economist at Maybank Indonesia, Myrdal Gunarto, assessed that the APBN performance up to April 2026 indicates strong fiscal health despite the government’s more aggressive spending compared to previous years. He noted that the positive outcome persisted despite frontloading of annual tax returns (SPT) affecting early-year revenues.

Overall, Indonesia’s fiscal performance in April 2026 remained robust, with the government balancing increased spending and revenue growth to keep the deficit under control. Gunarto added that budget efficiency measures, including reduced official travel for ministries and agencies and other spending adjustments, would help maintain fiscal stability in the second half of the year.

‘National revenue is likely to be boosted by stable domestic economic activity, particularly with unchanged fuel (BBM) and energy prices,’ he said. Additionally, higher global commodity prices and a weaker rupiah are also expected to increase government revenue, particularly from export duties and commodity-based PNBP. With these factors, Gunarto forecasts the fiscal deficit for the year will remain within safe limits.