Akmalal Hamdhi, Jakarta – Indonesia recorded a state budget deficit of Rp 240.1 trillion ($13.8 billion) in the first quarter of fiscal 2026, equivalent to 0.93% of gross domestic product (GDP), according to preliminary data from the Ministry of Finance.

The government has set a statutory deficit ceiling of 3% of GDP, with Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa repeatedly pledging to maintain fiscal discipline despite mounting pressures from higher oil prices and escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

The ministry had initially scheduled a press briefing on the latest budget developments for March 29, but later postponed it by one week.

Revenue up 10.5%

State revenue reached Rp 574.9 trillion ($33.16 billion), marking a 10.5% increase compared with the same period in 2025. The figure represents 18.2% of the full-year target approved by the government and parliament.

Tax revenue remained the primary driver, rising 20.7% year-on-year to Rp 394.8 trillion. Meanwhile, customs and excise revenue fell 12.6% to Rp 67.9 trillion. Non-tax revenue stood at Rp 112.1 trillion.

Government expenditure rose sharply to Rp 815 trillion in the first quarter, up 31.4% from a year earlier, accounting for 21.2% of the annual budget allocation.

Total spending comprised Rp 610.3 trillion in central government expenditure and Rp 204.8 trillion in transfers to regional administrations.

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/business/indonesia-posts-rp-240-trillion-budget-deficit-in-q1-202