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BATU – Amid ongoing government budget efficiency measures and increasing import tariffs, the Regional Board (DPK) of the Indonesian Employers’ Association (Apindo) in Batu City remains optimistic that the local economy will recover.

Chairman of Apindo Batu, Suryo Widodo, acknowledged that the wave of efficiency and rising import tariffs are affecting Indonesia’s economy, including in Batu City.

“Nevertheless, we remain optimistic that the economy can improve—provided the government, legislative council (DPRD), law enforcement authorities, and business actors can sit down together to formulate policies to address current challenges,” he said on Monday, April 14, 2025.

According to him, when the government implements budget efficiency, business players must also adopt similar measures. For example, tourism operators could reduce entrance fees and hotel rates to avoid laying off workers.

“In Batu City, if business actors lower ticket prices at tourist attractions and reduce hotel room rates, then the local government should respond by temporarily reducing taxes in those sectors. Of course, any tax adjustments must comply with central government regulations,” said the President Director of Jatim Park 3.

If these policies are implemented, continued the Batu City Chamber of Commerce (Kadin) advisor, they could indirectly stimulate consumer purchasing power, thereby gradually revitalizing the economy.

“Once the economy improves, the local government could withdraw the temporary tax reduction policy. That way, purchasing power remains stable, employment is preserved, and tax revenue from consumers is not disrupted,” he explained.

Source: malang.viva.co.id