The Indonesian Press Council is assessing the potential impact of a new trade agreement with the United States on the country’s media industry. The council, which represents dozens of Indonesian media organizations, held a closed-door meeting on Thursday, February 26, 2026, to discuss its position on the Reciprocal Trade Agreement (ART).
Concerns Over Digital Platform Support
The core of the concern centers on Article 3.3 of the ART. The Publisher Rights Committee has identified this article as potentially problematic, as it removes the requirement for US-based digital platforms to financially support Indonesian news organizations through licensing agreements or profit-sharing.
According to the text of Article 3.3, Indonesia must consult with the United States before entering into new digital trade agreements with other countries if those agreements could negatively affect American interests. This provision prevents Indonesia from requiring US digital service providers to financially support domestic news organizations, share data, or participate in revenue-sharing models.
Next Steps and Potential Outcomes
The Press Council has not yet determined whether it will formally oppose the agreement or request changes. Vice Chairperson Totok Suryanto stated that the council is awaiting a detailed explanation from the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, with a meeting scheduled for Friday, February 27, 2026.
Totok Suryanto emphasized the importance of prioritizing the national press, noting that many media companies are already facing operational and financial difficulties, with journalists being laid off. This situation, he stated, is “worrying for the health of our democracy.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Reciprocal Trade Agreement?
The Reciprocal Trade Agreement (ART) is a trade agreement between Indonesia and the United States, signed on February 19, 2026, intended to strengthen bilateral economic relations.
What specifically does Article 3.3 of the ART address?
Article 3.3 stipulates that Indonesia must consult the United States before entering new digital trade agreements with other countries that could threaten American interests, and prevents Indonesia from mandating financial support from US digital service providers to domestic news organizations.
What is the Press Council’s current position on the agreement?
The Press Council is preparing to clarify its stance and is awaiting further explanation from the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs before deciding whether to formally reject or request revisions to the agreement.
As the Indonesian Press Council considers its response to the US trade agreement, what role should international trade play in supporting a sustainable and independent press?
