This paper highlights the protectionist shift in Indonesia, and argue that this will harm Indonesia’s economic prospects.

Key findings

• Despite increasing economic challenges, Indonesia is likely to continue raising non-tariff barriers to trade.
• These protectionist measures are likely to prove counterproductive, raising prices for Indonesian consumers and reducing the competitiveness of Indonesian firms.
• This trend toward protectionism enjoys broad political support in Jakarta, and is likely to continue under President Jokowi.