JAKARTA - The good news from the industrial sector was again shown through the record of Indonesia's Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) which was able to reach 54.6 in April, according to the release by IHS Markit. This achievement increased significantly compared to March which was at the position of 53.2. If the PMI is above 50, it reflects an expansionary industrial sector.
For two consecutive months, Indonesia's manufacturing PMI recorded a new high. In addition, business conditions have now strengthened in the last six months amidst the pandemic conditions, with a positive trend from the industrial sector which is aggressively expanding its business.
According to the Minister of Industry, Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita, the PMI for Indonesian manufacturing is at an expansionary level which is an indicator of an improving economy, as well as the confidence of the business world and industry in government policies which are considered to be on the track.
In order to maintain a brilliant performance in the industrial sector, the government is determined to create a conducive business climate. Strategic steps include the granting of business permits and stimulus incentives. "For example, with the issuance of a Work Creation Law to provide more legal certainty for industry players in the country," he added. The Minister of Industry, AGK, also stated that the utilization of the non-oil and gas processing industry has again increased to 61.30%, a significant increase compared to the previous two months. (LM)