The Economist · 22 Oct, 12:59 · Business briefing

Multinational businesses are losing confidence in Indonesia

Recent reporting indicates a notable decline in investor and corporate confidence regarding Indonesia as a strategic business destination.

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The briefing

The story
in brief.

What happened, who it affects, and why it landed on our intelligence desk — in plain English, sixty seconds or less.

Recent reporting indicates a notable decline in investor and corporate confidence regarding Indonesia as a strategic business destination. Multinational enterprises are reassessing their operational footprints, citing regulatory complexities and economic headwinds as primary concerns. This shift suggests a potential slowdown in foreign direct investment flows and a recalibration of regional expansion plans. For professionals operating within or targeting the Southeast Asian market, this development signals increased volatility and a need for heightened strategic agility in navigating cross-border commercial relationships.

Employer demand for Risk Management Strategies skills — indexed growth since 2019
Indicative index of skill mentions in professional job postings for the field this story moves (2019 = 1)

Your move

What this means
for your career.

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You must pivot from growth-oriented expansion strategies to risk mitigation and operational resilience. As multinationals reconsider their Indonesia exposure, skills in navigating regulatory uncertainty and managing cross-border compliance become paramount. Focus on strengthening your expertise in risk assessment and strategic contingency planning. Professionals in supply chain management should diversify sourcing networks, while those in leadership roles must demonstrate adaptability to shifting geopolitical landscapes. Prioritise upskilling in crisis management and international business law to remain indispensable. A smart move is to analyse how global firms are restructuring regional hubs, positioning yourself as a specialist who can guide organisations through complex market exits or relocations with minimal disruption.

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Indicative salary uplift in the fields matched to this story
Indicative ranges from published continuing-education salary studies, by field — each field is a recommended course below

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