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BEKASI – The decline in public purchasing power has forced businesses in Bekasi City to prepare efficiency measures. However, the Indonesian Employers’ Association (APINDO) Bekasi City stressed that efficiency strategies should not result in layoffs.

APINDO Bekasi City Chairman, Farid Elhakamy, emphasized that layoffs are the most extreme option and should be avoided whenever possible.

“If profits decrease, or even if businesses face losses, layoffs are not always the solution. This is what we will formulate together,” Farid said on Wednesday (Sept. 10).

The plan will be discussed at a meeting of all APINDO members on Friday (Sept. 12). Farid stressed that this initiative is part of efforts to protect workers who are most vulnerable to efficiency measures.

At the same time, he urged the government to remain consistent in not raising tariffs or introducing new taxes in 2026. According to him, any tax hikes would have long-term effects—raising raw material import costs, increasing production expenses, driving up product prices, and further eroding consumer purchasing power.

“When the burden on employers grows, it inevitably drives businesses to pursue efficiency measures,” he said.

Previously, former Finance Minister Sri Mulyani had assured that there would be no tax increases in 2026 despite rising state expenditure needs, before being succeeded by Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa in early September.

Farid added that the business climate in Bekasi City remains relatively stable, although several APINDO members continue to report mounting business pressures.

Source: radarbekasi.id