KBRN, Jakarta: The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) believes that taxing e-commerce transactions is a fair and necessary move to level the playing field between online and conventional businesses.

Lead researcher Prof. Syahrir Ika emphasized that taxation should not be considered a penalty but a reasonable contribution to public infrastructure and the growth of Indonesia's digital economy.

"Taxes are not a form of punishment. They are a fair contribution to the facilities provided by the state and to the opportunities created by the digital economy, Syahrir said in an interview with Pro3 RRI on Friday, June 27, 2025.

He noted that the government is preparing to impose taxes on e-commerce transactions as part of efforts to strengthen state revenue. Given the support they have received from the public and the state, the move is seen as a way to ensure that digital platforms contribute proportionally.

"Our people have already made significant contributions to these platforms. It's only fair that marketplaces also contribute back to the state," he added.

Indonesia's digital transaction value is projected to exceed IDR 700 trillion by 2025. However, Syahrir pointed out that much of this activity remains underreported, creating an imbalance with conventional businesses that routinely pay taxes.

He stressed the importance of equalizing tax obligations between online and offline enterprises—not to suppress digital businesses, but to ensure fairness and accountability. "The goal is not to burden them, but to create balance," he said.

Syahrir also addressed concerns about the impact on micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), arguing that the policy could actually help them transition into the formal economy.

"Once MSMEs enter the formal sector, they gain access to broader opportunities—from both the market and the government," he explained.

He underscored the need for public consultation before the policy is implemented, particularly with digital marketplace operators.

"They should be properly involved in the process so that the tax rates set are acceptable and feasible," Syahrir said. ***

Translator: Gusti Panji

Editor: Lasti Martina