ASDP Responds to Viral Video of Trader Complaining About Rp 650,000 Levy

A video containing complaints from a trader who claimed to have been asked for Rp 650,000 to sell at Merak, Cilegon, has gone viral. PT ASDP has now spoken out about the viral post.

“In connection with information regarding a number of payments charged to trading partners, ASDP understands the importance of providing clear information so as not to cause misunderstanding. These payments are not entirely ASDP’s revenue or levies,” said General Manager of ASDP Merak Branch, Umar Imran Batubara, in a written statement on Wednesday (26/8/2026).

ASDP stated that the company only receives a levy in the form of a pass card. ASDP did not disclose the value of the pass card.

He said other requirements such as vests and so on are collected by the foundation that oversees the traders. He also did not explain the amount collected by the foundation.

“ASDP’s revenue from trading partners is in the form of an entry pass, in accordance with applicable regulations. Meanwhile, other needs or payments are managed by the foundation that oversees the trading partners,” he said.

He said the rule requiring traders to be registered was implemented to organise the port area. He said only official partners may sell in the port area.

“In this process, ASDP understands that the port area is also a space for economic activity for a number of official trading partners, including street vendors. Therefore, the arrangement is carried out while still paying attention to the existence and interests of partners who have been registered and are under the auspices of the foundation,” he said.

Seen from the viral video on Wednesday (26/8), a trader appeared carrying a bag containing merchandise. He was talking to someone and claimed to have been asked for Rp 650,000 in order to be allowed to sell.

“If you don’t have it, your goods are confiscated. You’re told to redeem them with Rp 500,000. That’s called extortion, that’s extortion,” he said.