Khofifah Gathers East Java APINDO Members to Discuss Strategy Against Trump’s Tariff Pressure
Thursday, 10 April 2025
SURABAYA – The United States President Donald Trump's policy of imposing import tariffs of up to 32 percent has raised serious concerns about East Java’s export performance to the US.
Taking swift action, East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa convened a meeting with members of the Indonesian Employers’ Association (APINDO) East Java chapter to explore opportunities amid the global economic pressure. The meeting was held at Grahadi State Building on the evening of Wednesday, April 9, 2025.
Governor Khofifah stressed the importance of collaboration and emphasized the need to prevent mass layoffs (PHK) as a consequence of the escalating trade war.
The meeting aimed to collectively explore and identify opportunities that can still be seized despite the current economic challenges.
“I invite APINDO to persist in our efforts—analyzing, searching for, and identifying opportunities amid the current global economic conditions,” she said at Grahadi State Building on Thursday, April 10, 2025.
Khofifah views the current situation as a reminder that within every challenge lies an opportunity.
She also requested data from APINDO detailing the sectors most affected by Trump’s import tariff policy.
This data will help determine which sectors in East Java—known as the Land of Majapahit—require intervention and support, as well as coordination with the central government.
“The findings are expected to become effective recommendations that can be forwarded to the central government. Our exports to the United States are significantly affected,” she added.
Currently, she emphasized, the most critical task is maintaining a stable and conducive environment to uphold public confidence.
One way to do so, according to Khofifah, is through collaboration and synergy with relevant institutions.
Khofifah also appealed to all APINDO East Java members not to carry out layoffs. She pointed out that a wave of layoffs has already occurred in various parts of Indonesia.
“I appreciate the efforts made to avoid layoffs. Perhaps the next option is to reduce working hours or working days instead,” she said.
Meanwhile, Alim Markus, Chairman of APINDO East Java’s Board of Advisors, stated that Trump’s import policy undoubtedly impacts businesses.
He urged the government to stay focused on mapping out strategic options to help businesses survive in the current global economic landscape.
He also highlighted the need for the government to maintain regional stability so that businesses can continue to operate productively while seeking alternative markets beyond the United States.
“A business leader must be firm and able to unify. Entrepreneurs are known for their resilience,” he remarked.
He further assured that none of APINDO's members will lay off their employees.
Should layoffs become inevitable, business owners will facilitate the transfer of workers to other companies in need of labor.
Source: harian.disway.id
