Decline in exports
Decline in exports
The government and the private sector are becoming increasingly concerned about the current downward trend in non- oil exports.
President Soeharto has ordered that the causes of the decreased level of exports to six trade partners be studied, and that proper measures be taken to solve the problem.
According to the Minister of Information, Harmoko, exports decreased in trade with Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, China, the United Arab Emirates and Thailand.
In February 1994 our trade surplus was US$649.2 million, which was lower than in the previous period. Although this doesn't reflect the full-year readings, it serves as a warning for us to be watchful of further declines.
The implementation of the GATT decision will have an influence on the pattern of international trade. Competitiveness is essential in any nation's efforts to enter and survive on the global market. Indonesia must make its non-oil commodities and products competitive if export surpluses are to be achieved.
New competitors emerging from among developing countries in Asia, such as Vietnam, Bangladesh and Mexico, are a potential threat to Indonesian exports. Those countries have stepped forward as strong exporters of certain kinds of products and commodities.
How serious Indonesia is in its effort to enhance its competitiveness remains to be seen.
--Bisnis Indonesia, Jakarta