Paper was among Indonesia's export products to Chile having potential to increase considerably, the minister noted in a statement here on Saturday.
Indonesia's paper exports to Chile increased 50 percent during the January-April 2019 period than that in the corresponding period in the previous year, he remarked after attending business forum meetings in Santiago, Chile, on Friday (May 17).
With the implementation of IC-CEPA, Indonesia could function as a gateway for Chile's products to penetrate the ASEAN, Australian, and New Zealand markets, he pointed out.
Moreover, the Comprehensive Regional Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP), projected for completion this year, too has drawn the attention of Chile.
"There lies vast potential for growth in trade between Indonesia and Chile. IC-CEPA will not only boost Indonesian exports to Chile but also to other nations in the Latin American region," the minister stated.
The trade balance between Indonesia and Chile was recorded at US$274.1 million last year, with Indonesia recording a surplus of $43.87 million.
During the business forum, the Indonesian trade delegation also highlighted the need for all products imported to Indonesia to carry halal certificates.
On the sidelines of the business forum, Minister Lukita organized meetings with representatives of Chilean firms, including Midesa and Colun.
During his stay in Chile, Lukita had also planned to attend a trade ministerial meeting of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Forum in Vina del Mar.
Translator: Satyagraha, Fardah
Editor: Suharto
Copyright © ANTARA 2019
