While halting bauxite ore exports aims to increase added value domestically, the government has been reminded to prepare mitigation measures to stem negative impacts from the policy.

Based on BPS data, in the last two years, Indonesia has recorded a trade balance surplus with the United States, India, the European Union, Japan, Italy, Turkey, Mexico, South Korea and the United Kingdom.

We are still lucky that during the last few years the dry season has been wet, so that food production can still proceed. However, these conditions should not make us complacent.

Global trade is growing slowly, filled with competition and protectionism. Indonesia must strengthen its negotiation strategy and high value-added export-based investments.