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The Plastic Excise Policy Debate in Indonesia: A Narrative Policy Analysis ApproachThe Plastic Excise Policy Debate in Indonesia: A Narrative Policy Analysis Approach
Summary
This study applied Narrative Policy Analysis to Indonesia's plastic excise policy debate (2016–2025), finding that while environmental groups and the Ministry of Finance support the tax to curb single-use plastics, industry associations oppose it over cost concerns — recommending more inclusive policy design integrated with broader waste management strategy.
The plastic excise policy in Indonesia has been a subject of debate since its proposal was submitted in 2016. This policy aims to reduce single-use plastic consumption and address the growing plastic waste problem. However, there are significant differences in opinion regarding its effectiveness and impact. This study uses Narrative Policy Analysis (NPA) to explore the policy’s narratives and counter-narratives articulated by policy actors, industry stakeholders, and the public. Using a post-positivist framework, this study analyzes the construction and framing of policy through discourse. Data were collected via media content analysis and document study, focusing on news articles and government publications from trusted sources between 2016 and 2025. The analysis identifies the dominant narrative supporting the policy, particularly from the Ministry of Finance, and the counter-narratives from the Ministry of Industry and various industry associations. Findings suggest that although the policy has strong support from civil society and environmental organizations, it faces opposition due to concerns about its impact on production costs and industry competitiveness. To resolve the tensions between these narratives, the study recommends a more inclusive policy development process and the integration of the plastic excise policy with a broader waste management strategy.