Purbaya Reveals Budget Deficit of Rp 240.1 Trillion in March

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa recorded a state revenue and expenditure budget (APBN) deficit of Rp 240.1 trillion at the end of March 2026, equivalent to 0.93% of gross domestic product (GDP). “When there is a deficit, the public, ladies and gentlemen, should not be surprised. Our budget is indeed designed with a deficit,” he said during a working meeting with Commission XI of the House of Representatives at the parliamentary complex in Senayan, Jakarta, on Monday, 6 April 2026. Purbaya explained that the budget deficit occurred in line with substantial government spending throughout the first three months of this year. He assessed the current deficit situation as normal. However, the state treasurer assured ongoing reviews of state revenues and expenditures throughout the year. “We are very cautious in considering this,” he said. On the same occasion, Purbaya explained that state spending growth during the first quarter of this year was 31.4%, amounting to Rp 815.0 trillion or equivalent to 21.2% of the APBN. This figure is larger compared to the same period last year, which was 17.1% of the APBN. Purbaya stated that this state spending growth is expected to have a significant impact on the economy. Meanwhile, tax receipts grew 10.5% annually or Rp 574.9 trillion up to the first quarter of this year. With the difference between state revenues and expenditures, the Ministry of Finance recorded a primary balance of Rp 95.8 trillion.