Minister Maman and Meutya Hafid Prepare New Marketplace Regulations
The government is strengthening cross-ministry synergy to protect the digital ecosystem of micro, small and medium enterprises (UMKM). UMKM Minister Maman Abdurrahman formally engaged with the Minister of Communications and Digital (Meutya Hafid) to respond to various complaints from business actors about practices on marketplace platforms.
This strategic step follows reports of significant challenges faced by local entrepreneurs, ranging from rising service fees (seller fees) to indications of market abuse by platforms.
“I have conveyed all reports from UMKM entrepreneurs on marketplaces to the Minister of Communications and Digital. Of course, Kemenkomdigi will act in accordance with its mechanism and authority,” said Maman in a press statement received in Jakarta, on Friday (22/5).
In a one-hour meeting, Maman stressed the importance of fairness in the e-commerce ecosystem. He assessed that unilateral policies adopted by digital platforms, without considering the conditions of UMKM, can undermine the social economy order.
“The e-commerce ecosystem must be fair. Most importantly, UMKM entrepreneurs must be protected. If one party acts without consulting another, I think that has shifted towards an unjust state,” Maman asserted.
He added that this effort is a direct instruction from President Prabowo Subianto. The government is required to provide protection and empowerment so that UMKM can endure in the face of global economic dynamics with a proportional and objective approach.
In response to the reports, Meutya Hafid stated readiness to support rule enforcement in the digital space. Currently, the Ministry of UMKM is preparing new regulations that will serve as the legal umbrella for protecting business actors on digital platforms.
“If there is any violation of the UMKM protection rules in the digital realm, Kemenkomdigi is ready to act because that is indeed our duty,” Meutya said.
Meutya also issued a stern warning to app developers and platform operators to prepare promptly. The government asks digital industry players to adapt to regulations being drafted to create a healthy and sustainable business climate.
“From now on, operators must understand that there will be new rules being prepared by the Ministry of UMKM. We hope all operators can quickly adapt and comply with those rules,” she concluded. (Fal/I-1)
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