JOKOWI TO CONTINUE EASING RULES TO SUPPORT INDUSTRIES AND PROP UP COMPETITIVE EDGE

Jokowi explains the government's determination — Jokowi explains the government’s determination

Jakarta, 29 Dzulhijjah/13 October 2015 (MINA) – President Joko Widodo has pledged to continue to deregulate rules to help boost the competitiveness of Indonesian industries, particularly the F&B industry, as Indonesia is about to enter the ASEAN Economic Community era.

According to Joko Widodo, which is popularly known as Jokowi, his promise to support business easing to the sector in view of the role of the industry as a sizeable contributor in driving the GDP growth.

The President made the statement when he met with the board members of the Indonesian Food and Beverage Association (Gapmmi) at the Presidential Office in Jakarta, Tuesday.

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Gapmmi chairman Adhi S. Lukman said that the F&B industry’s contribution to the GDP is relatively large at about 32 percent of non-oil industries’ total contribution.

“The president is expecting the food and beverage industry to keep growing,” he said.

In its response, Gapmmi expects the government’s support, especially in providing raw materials, most of which have to be imported, such as sugar, salt, and beef.

The association also hopes for the process of other technical regulations, such as licensing, could be simplified and shortened, so that industry actors can practice their businesses with more convenience.

The food and beverage industry is strategic and labor-intensive businesses in the country, with the ability to absorb nearly four million workers. (T/R07/R01)

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Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)