Mixed bag: Indonesia’s 8% growth dream hits a plastic ceiling

Indonesia's ambitious 8% economic growth target is facing challenges, highlighted by the significant price increase of plastic bags. In a market in Depok, south of Jakarta, vendors like Budi are experiencing a near doubling of costs for plastic bags, essential for their businesses. This surge, from approximately 10,000 rupiah to 15,000-20,000 rupiah, is impacting small businesses and raising concerns about the country's economic outlook. The rising cost of this everyday item is becoming an indicator of broader economic pressures affecting Indonesia's growth prospects.