Jakarta – Negotiations between Indonesia and the United States regarding tariffs are reportedly in their final stages. According to sources within the Indonesian government, the aim is to finalize an agreement this year that would exempt key Indonesian commodities from US tariffs.
Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, stated that significant progress has been made. “We have discussed almost all the texts, and we have also sent a team to the United States. We only need to complete the legal drafting from both sides,” he affirmed during the 13th US-Indonesia Investment Summit in Jakarta.
The Minister emphasized that no major obstacles remain. “There are no objections. Of course, if we provide facilities to one country, other countries will also request them, and this is normal.”
Indonesia remains committed to various trade agreements, including Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements with the European Union, Canada, and China.
The proposed agreement with the United States would see several Indonesian goods, not produced domestically in the US, exempted from tariffs. These commodities include crude palm oil, rubber, tea, coffee, and other rubber-based products. Discussions are still ongoing regarding tariffs on textiles and footwear.
The successful conclusion of these negotiations could significantly boost Indonesian exports to the United States and strengthen economic ties between the two nations. This development is being closely watched by other countries in the region, as it could set a precedent for future trade agreements.
