Indonesia eyes bigger export gains through global trade pacts

..boosting the use of facilities provided under these trade agreements is a strategic agenda that must be consistently promoted,

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Trade is strengthening cooperation with the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) to optimize the utilization of various existing international trade agreements.

Deputy Minister of Trade Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri said this strategy is part of the government's effort to expand export market access, increase the competitiveness of national businesses, and maintain the positive momentum of Indonesia's trade performance amidst global economic dynamics.

In a statement issued on Monday, she emphasized that trade agreements already concluded by the government are key instruments for driving economic growth through higher exports and broader market access.

"We should remain optimistic, as Indonesia's trade performance continues to show strong resilience," Dyah Roro conveyed at the opening of the "Meeting on the Utilization of Trade Agreements" on Thursday (June 4).

Currently, Indonesia has 25 international trade agreements, covering more than 35 partner countries in various regions of the world.

These countries account for approximately one-third of global gross domestic product (GDP) and more than half of the world's population.

In 2025, nearly 68 percent of Indonesia's exports were destined for partner countries covered by these agreements.

According to Dyah Roro, this achievement demonstrates that trade agreements have become a key pillar in expanding market access for Indonesian products.

"Therefore, boosting the use of facilities provided under these trade agreements is a strategic agenda that must be consistently promoted," she emphasized.

One example of the successful utilization of trade agreements is seen in the implementation of the Indonesia-United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IUAE-CEPA), which has contributed to stronger trade relations between the two countries. Indonesia's trade balance with the United Arab Emirates, which previously recorded a deficit, posted a surplus of US$1.62 billion in Indonesia's favor in 2025.

To further increase utilization, the Ministry of Trade is strengthening several support programs, including the provision of region-based export information, exporter coaching clinics, and the implementation of an electronic Certificate of Origin (e-SKA) system to simplify administrative procedures.

On the occasion, Dyah Roro also invited Kadin to expand collaboration by organizing more interactive forums that reach businesses across different regions.

"We want to ensure that all businesses, especially MSMEs and new exporters, can take advantage of the opportunities offered by these trade agreements," she said.

She added that strong collaboration between the government and the business sector will be crucial for increasing the use of trade agreements, expanding exports to non-traditional markets, and strengthening Indonesia's position in the global supply chain.

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Translator: Kelik Dewanto, Resinta Sulistiyandari

Editor: M Razi Rahman

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