Jakarta – Industry Ministry Airlangga Hartarto has expressed his hopes that logistical activities will return to normal after the government has lifted a ban on trucks for several routes that were prioritized for Idul Fitri travelers.
"The closure of several routes [for trucks] had caused challenges recently. Many goods could not be delivered. We hope that it will be back to normal," he said on Sunday evening, as reported by kontan.co.id.
The restriction had caused difficulties for the delivery of goods and materials needed for the industrial sector that continues its activities during the holiday season, the minister said.
Airlangga noted that demand for several industrial goods, including food and beverages, was also not as high as during last year's Ramadhan and Idul Fitri.
"Compared to last year's Ramadhan, there was a drop in demand. On the one end, there was a decrease in demand, and on the other end, prices have remained stable," Airlangga said.
The minister expressed his hope that the public's purchasing power would increase again after the festivities to help propel industrial growth.
Airlangga also said he hoped the financial sector could encourage higher consumption. (fss/bbn)