Jakarta, ThedailyID — The strengthening US dollar has reportedly started affecting traders and buyers at Pasar Senen, one of Jakarta’s busiest traditional markets.
Several merchants said prices for imported goods and raw materials have gradually increased as the rupiah weakened against the US dollar.
Traders explained that products linked to imported components now cost more to purchase from suppliers. As a result, some sellers have started adjusting retail prices to avoid losses.
“We can already feel the impact,” one trader said while describing rising operational and supply costs at the market.
The rupiah recently came under pressure as the US dollar strengthened globally amid high interest rates, geopolitical tensions, and international market uncertainty.
Meanwhile, several banks reportedly sold US dollars near the Rp17,600 level in recent days.
At Pasar Senen, some clothing and electronics traders admitted they became more cautious when restocking products because import-related prices continue fluctuating.
Buyers have also started noticing gradual price increases across several goods categories. However, many consumers still continue shopping normally because the increases remain relatively manageable for now.
Economists warned that a prolonged rupiah decline could eventually affect broader consumer prices, especially for imported products and industries dependent on foreign materials.
In addition, analysts said market sentiment remains sensitive to global economic conditions and movements from the US Federal Reserve.
The weakening rupiah has recently become a major public discussion topic, especially after several officials and politicians commented on the currency’s pressure against the dollar.
Despite concerns, the government and Bank Indonesia continue expressing confidence in Indonesia’s economic stability and inflation control measures.
