Indonesian Press Council Examines US Trade Deal’s Impact on Media Industry
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – The Indonesian Press Council is assessing the potential effects of the Reciprocal Trade Agreement (ART) between Indonesia and the United States on the country’s media landscape. The council convened a closed-door meeting on Thursday, February 26, 2026, to formulate its position on the agreement, according to reports from Tempo.co.
Concerns Over Article 3.3
Vice Chairperson Totok Suryanto stated that the meeting served as a proactive measure to anticipate potential challenges arising from the implementation of the ART. A key concern centers on Article 3.3, which the Publisher Rights Committee has identified as potentially detrimental to Indonesia’s press. This article reportedly removes the requirement for US-based digital platforms to financially support the Indonesian press through licensing agreements or profit-sharing arrangements.
Specifically, Article 3.3 stipulates that Indonesia must consult with the United States before entering into new digital trade agreements with other nations if those agreements could impact US interests. Under this provision, Indonesia would be restricted from mandating that US digital service providers financially support domestic news organizations, share data, or participate in revenue-sharing models.
Council Awaits Government Explanation
Totok Suryanto clarified that the Press Council has not yet reached a decision on whether to formally reject the agreement or request revisions. The council is currently awaiting a detailed explanation from the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, which is representing the Indonesian government in the trade negotiations. Officials from both the Press Council and the ministry are scheduled to meet on Friday, February 27, 2026, to discuss the matter further, as reported by Tempo.co.
Existing Regulations and Industry Concerns
The Press Council highlighted the existence of Presidential Regulation Number 32 of 2024, which outlines the responsibilities of digital platform companies to support quality journalism in Indonesia. This regulation aims to facilitate negotiations between media companies and platforms to secure rights and revenues from the commercialization of content.
Totok Suryanto emphasized the importance of prioritizing the national press in policy decisions, particularly given the financial difficulties faced by many media organizations. “We have seen many media companies close and journalists laid off, which is worrying for the health of our democracy,” he said, according to Tempo.co.
About the Indonesian Press Council
The Indonesian Press Council (Dewan Pers) was established in 1968 and has evolved into an independent non-structural agency responsible for safeguarding press freedom in Indonesia. Initially functioning as an advisory body, it was reformed after the fall of the New Order regime to become an autonomous entity free from government influence, as detailed by the Press Council’s Wikipedia page. The council regulates the press industry, defends journalists, and handles disputes.