The Indonesian NTM is generally narrower than those arranged in other countries. Hence, the NTM must be in line with the scientific base. The Trade Ministry requires cooperation and support from several related ministries.
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The drafting of non-tariff measures (NTM), under the Indonesian trade agreement scheme, necessitates support from stakeholders, including entrepreneurs and related ministries, Director of ASEAN Negotiation at the Trade Ministry Antonius Yudi Triantoro stated.

“The Indonesian NTM is generally narrower than those arranged in other countries. Hence, the NTM must be in line with the scientific base. The Trade Ministry requires cooperation and support from several related ministries,” Triantoro noted during a web seminar on the topic “Revealing the Trade in Goods (TIG) and Rules of Origin (ROO) RCEP Agreement” here on Tuesday.

The NTM, under the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) scheme, according to the international trade regulation perspective, is still permitted as long as the objective refers to legitimacy, Triantoro remarked.

“If we observe carefully, the World Trade Organization (WTO) is still allowing the NTM that is aimed at protecting consumers as well as ensuring health protection for humans, animals, and plants,” Triantoro revealed.

In fact, he acknowledged that drafting an NTM was no easy task since it addresses challenges in terms of domestic protection, for instance, consumer health, and so is protecting the national industry from the hike in imported goods.

Triantoro stated that Indonesia also faced the challenge of drafting the NTM in accordance with its scientific rules.

“Moreover, we cannot merely rely on low tariffs in the near future,” he pointed out.

Hence, the ministry is attempting to draft the NTM by deciphering reasons for stronger legitimacy, so it will not be sued by the WTO.

“We need to do this by focusing on the food regulatory practice, so we can prevent the problems that might arise at the WTO. Thus, this effort requires the support and role of industry players and ministries,” he remarked. Related news: Foodex Japan offers market expansion momentum for Indonesia

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Translator: Juwita Trisna Rahayu
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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