Indonesia launches 2026 Economic Census to guide policy and development

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) began the 2026 Economic Census, a ten‑year national data‑collection effort aimed at informing government policy, investment decisions and regional development. The launch was marked by ceremonies in several regions, including a traditional Bibiliku drum performance in Kupang, NTT, and a signing ceremony at the Pendopo Keraton in Sumenep, East Java, where local officials urged businesses to provide accurate information.

Minister of Empowerment for the People Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar said the census will serve as the foundation for budget allocation and targeted support for the creative economy and micro‑, small‑ and medium‑enterprises, noting that “policy will be based on accurate data.” BPS head Amalia Adininggar Widyasanti likened the census to a medical check‑up for the economy, emphasizing that "every piece of information gathered will be a crucial foundation for designing policies that can enhance the welfare of the people." Provincial leaders highlighted the role of the data in poverty‑reduction goals and in crafting inclusive, sustainable development strategies.