The Today's Headlines section of Indonesia Investments is a regularly updated section which contains the latest information with regard to topics that are currently causing headlines in Indonesia's media. Most of our headlines cover political, economic and social matters. As a consequence of their recent nature, these topics may not have crystallized fully yet and can, therefore, lack a profound analysis. For publications with a more in-depth understanding of subjects, we refer you to our News, Financial or Business columns.
There is a rising trend of investment from the European Union (EU) into Indonesia. This is no surprise considering the improving economy in Europe. Based on data from the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM), the EU is now the fourth-biggest foreign investor in Indonesia, after Singapore, China and Japan.
Overnight, the Dow Jones Industrial Average experienced another correction, in fact: a brutal sell-off. After Monday's heavy losses, the Dow Jones plunged 4.15 percent to 23,860 points on Thursday (08/02). Besides the Dow Jones, the S&P 500 has also entered "correction territory" (having fallen over ten percent since their January highs). The mini correction that we saw on Tuesday may have been the eye in the storm only.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) sees room for Indonesia's tax ratio to rise up to 15 percent of gross domestic product (GDP). Luis Breuer, IMF Mission Chief for Indonesia, expects to see an improvement in Indonesia's tax ratio - from the weak level of 10 percent of GDP in 2017 - on the back of Indonesia's improving economic growth. Accelerating economic growth should boost tax revenue realization.
Indonesia's tobacco production, prepared from the leaves of the tobacco plant, heavily depends on weather conditions. If weather conditions are normal in 2018, then Indonesia should be able to produce up to 200,000 tons of tobacco. However, if there occurs unconducive weather (a prolonged rainy season or short dry season), then it is difficult to predict Indonesia's 2018 tobacco production.
