Indonesia's Economic Census Not Aimed at Raising Taxes, Says Statistics Agency

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) has moved to allay concerns that the upcoming 2026 Economic Census could lead to higher taxes for businesses. Sonny Harry Budiotomo Harmadi, the Deputy Head of BPS, emphasized that the census's core purpose is purely data collection.

Harmadi clarified that the primary objective of the 2026 Economic Census is to meticulously document the nation's economic activities. This includes gathering comprehensive information on the operations of various business entities across the country. The data collected is intended for statistical analysis and policy planning, not for fiscal enforcement.

The BPS official stressed that the census is a vital tool for understanding the structure and dynamics of the Indonesian economy. The insights gained will help in formulating effective economic strategies and development plans. He assured the public and business owners that the data gathered will be handled with confidentiality and used solely for statistical purposes, explicitly ruling out any intention to use it as a basis for tax hikes.