Ojol platform operators' profits expected to be squeezed, economist: digital ecosystem becomes the main support
Republika.co.id, Jakarta — The government’s policy to cut commissions for online motorcycle taxi (ojol) services from 20 percent to 8 percent is seen to affect the earnings and profitability of app operators. However, economists say the change is unlikely to destabilise the sustainability of tech companies such as PT GoTo Gojek Tokopedia Tbk or Grab Indonesia.
An economist from Airlangga University, Rumayya Batubara, said the adjustment to commissions would influence the platforms’ revenue, especially from two-wheeled transport services. However, she noted the impact does not automatically make the business unviable.
“GoTo itself acknowledges there is an impact on two-wheeled revenue. But is this immediately threatening their business sustainability? Not automatically,” Rumayya said on Wednesday (20 May 2026).
She explained that companies such as GoTo and Grab have diversified their businesses beyond ride-hailing services. According to her, business lines such as financial technology (fintech), logistics, and other digital services can be a pillar when one segment comes under regulatory pressure.
“Throughout 2025, GoTo’s fintech net revenue grew 62 percent to Rp 5.8 trillion. Moreover, AI-based operational efficiency also helped GoTo to post net profit for the first time in Q1 2026,” Rumayya said.
Nevertheless, Rumayya warned that the policy of lowering commissions does not automatically improve drivers’ welfare. She said that if consumer fares rise, the number of riders could fall, impacting drivers’ incomes.
“A reduction in the platforms’ commission does not automatically mean driver earnings will rise. If consumer fares increase, riders may decrease, orders may fall, and ultimately driver income could stagnate or even fall,” she said.
Earlier, the President issued Presidential Regulation No. 27 of 2026 regulating changes to the commission scheme for online two-wheeled transport services. Following the rule, GoTo said it would implement adjustments to its Gojek business.
GoTo’s Chief Executive Hans Patuwo said the company would adjust the revenue-sharing arrangement for two-wheeled services in line with government direction. Additionally, the GoRide Hemat subscription programme would be terminated and would adopt the new 8 percent commission scheme similar to regular GoRide services.
Hans assured that the company would continue various welfare programmes for driver-partners, from Hari Raya Bonus (BHR), BPJS Ketenagakerjaan and BPJS Kesehatan participation, to scholarships and free Umrah for driver-partners.
According to Hans, the strength of the business ecosystem remains the main capital for the company in facing the regulatory changes.
“At the strength of the ecosystem and ongoing innovation, we are optimistic we can make the necessary adjustments while maintaining Gojek’s and GoTo’s long-term stability,” Hans said.
Meanwhile, Grab Indonesia CEO Neneng Goenadi said the company will continue to coordinate with the government and all stakeholders to ensure the implementation of the new rules proceeds smoothly for two-wheeled ride-hailing driver-partners.