Bakrie argued the government's need to gradually increase fuel prices to keep fuel subsidies from busting its budget, while bringing the cost of fuel closer to international levels. By October 2005 and after two price hikes, the cost of fuel increased by 126%. Standard & Poor's rated the hike as an encouraging move to relieve immediate pressure on the country's fiscal position and external balance.
Bakrie argued that the government should gradually raise fuel prices to avoid exceeding its budget, while bringing fuel costs closer to international levels. By October 2005 and after two price hikes, fuel prices increased by 126%. Standard & Poor's rated the hike as a positive step in alleviating immediate pressure on the country's finances and external balance.