The non-traditional export destinations that the Indonesian Trade Ministry successfully open are located in Africa, Central Europe, and South America, he told ANTARA here on Wednesday.
To this end, Soestrino noted that economic collaboration conducted by the Trade Ministry, in the form of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), Free Trade Agreement (FTA), and Preferential Trade Area (PTA), has significantly boosted the sales of Indonesian products in several countries.
In addition, he highlighted that a decline in the number of COVID-19 cases as a result of the government's efforts also contributed to the rise in trade.
He opined that the government's efforts to stem the spread of COVID-19 aligned with the recovery of the business and trade sectors.
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Furthermore, the government had contributed to this recovery through the National Economic Recovery (PEN) Program, including for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Despite this, in order to optimize the recovery of business and trade, Soetrisno is optimistic of a relaxation for financing access within financial institutions.
This is required on account of the fact that business capital was utilized as a backup fund in order to survive amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
"The relaxation of financing access is intended to provide low interest and easier access," Soestrisno expounded.
Statistics Indonesia (BPS) recorded a US$4.74-billion surplus in the trade balance in August 2021, higher as compared to US$2.59 billion in the previous month.
According to BPS, Indonesia's export value during that period had reached US$21.42 billion. This achievement was the highest record in Indonesia's history.
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Translator: Sella Gareta, Fadhli Ruhman
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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