The Indonesian Retail Entrepreneurs Association (Aprindo) is currently contemplating legal action against the government regarding their outstanding debt of Rp 344 billion originating from the cooking oil subsidy program.

Roy Nicholas Mandey, the Chairman of Aprindo, stated during a meeting in South Jakarta on September 20th that the cooking oil subsidy process has reached its final stages, yet they have not taken legal action. Aprindo had given the government until September to settle the debt. However, despite the considerable amount of time provided, the government has not provided clarity to retail entrepreneurs regarding the debt payment. Therefore, Aprindo is considering proactive measures to recover the funds they are entitled to.

Roy elaborated that the process is ongoing, and they will soon hold an internal meeting the following Friday to plan the next steps.

Additionally, Roy addressed Trade Minister Zulkifli Hasan, known as Zulhas, accusing him of not offering an adequate response to the case. In Roy's view, this is a matter that should not be disregarded.

Retail entrepreneurs claim that the government owes them Rp 344 billion related to the price difference in cooking oil under the 2022 single-price program. However, after a year and a half, the government has yet to repay the debt.

Deputy Trade Minister Jerry Sambuaga previously stated that the Ministry of Trade is still in the process of studying the cooking oil subsidy issue to determine the ministry's future course of action.

What is your opinion on this topic? Share your opinion with us. Don't forget to follow Digivestasi's Instagram, TikTok, and Youtube accounts to stay updated with the latest information about economics, finance, digital technology, and digital asset investment.