Ombudsman Calls for Stronger Trade Governance Amid Price Hikes

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Ombudsman has found price increases for several staple foods in traditional markets based on a survey conducted in Jakarta, Central Java, and West Nusa Tenggara in May 2026.

The Ombudsman stressed the importance of effective trade governance and public services to maintain the affordability of essential goods.

Ombudsman member Abdul Ghoffar said the survey was part of the institution’s oversight function in the trade sector.

“The survey was conducted by the Indonesian Ombudsman as a manifestation of its duties, particularly in the trade sector,” Abdul said in Jakarta on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

He explained that the survey considered two main factors influencing market prices: the rise in non-subsidized fuel prices and increased demand ahead of Eid al-Adha 2026.

Abdul emphasized that the price of basic necessities directly affects the public economy, service quality, and people’s rights. Therefore, the Ombudsman must oversee trade management to ensure government policies respond to societal needs.

The Ombudsman is committed to ensuring that state officials deliver quality, integrity-based, and reliable public services, including in the trade sector, which falls under the responsibility of the Trade Policy Agency of the Ministry of Trade.

The Ombudsman has encouraged stronger coordination and collaboration with the Trade Policy Agency to improve governance, prevent maladministration, and support the development of more responsive trade policies.

According to first-quarter 2026 data, public complaints remain dominated by issues in agrarian affairs, land, personnel, and education.

Abdul said oversight in the trade sector remains crucial because of its impact on people’s lives. Ombudsman reports, he added, provide input to help the government evaluate and refine trade policies.

“Additionally, the Ombudsman supervises the implementation of administrative and informational services to ensure compliance with applicable service standards,” Abdul said.

The Trade Policy Agency, a unit under the Ministry of Trade, is tasked with analyzing and providing trade policy recommendations to support government decision-making. ***