"As the center for industries and trade in southern India, Chennai city plays an important role in enhancing trade ties between Indonesia and India," Trade Minister Budi Santoso said in an official statement received here on Monday.
He pointed out that the office, which was inaugurated on April 26, 2025, is particularly expected to help Indonesian micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) increase their contribution to Indonesia-India commercial activities.
Santoso said that the opening of the new office marks an intracity relocation from Ispahani Center to Express Avenue Estate, which he described as a more strategic location due to its integration with shopping centers, offices, and hotels.
The minister expressed the hope that the new Chennai ITPC office would significantly contribute to promoting Indonesian products in Indian markets, support business cooperation between the two countries, and provide accurate and up-to-date market information.
To achieve that end, he emphasized the importance of the Chennai ITPC working in synergy with the Indonesian trade attaché in New Delhi.
Meanwhile, head of the Chennai ITPC, Nugroho Priyo Pratomo, said that India is the largest importer of Indonesia's non-oil and gas commodities after the United States and China.
"Regarding Indonesian MSMEs, they are projected to export a variety of non-oil and gas products to India, such as spices, furniture and home decorations, processed food, and natural gums," he informed.
As per data from the Trade Ministry, Indonesia's non-oil and gas exports to India reached US$2.87 billion during the January–February 2025 period. In the first quarter of this year, India was the third-largest contributor to Indonesia's trade surplus, with the value exceeding US$3 billion.
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Translator: Maria C, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Arie Novarina
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