“We are pushing for Indonesia to become a major exporter of CPO to Canada. We are strengthening cooperation for mutual benefit,” said Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman during a visit by Canadian Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Heath MacDonald, on Thursday.
The visit reaffirmed Indonesia’s role as a respected strategic partner in Canada’s agricultural diplomacy within the Indo-Pacific region.
During their meeting, the two ministers discussed opportunities for cooperation amid global challenges such as climate uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and food crises.
Sulaiman underscored the importance of a mutually beneficial partnership to enhance both national and global food security.
One key issue discussed was boosting Indonesia’s palm oil exports to Canada, where Indonesia is currently the second-largest supplier.
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The ministers also explored collaboration opportunities in livestock development—particularly dairy and live cattle—as well as in the transfer of modern agricultural technology and climate-resilient practices.
Canada reiterated its commitment to enhancing trade relations with Indonesia, including through the recently concluded Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
Minister MacDonald stated that the current geopolitical climate presents an opportunity to increase trade with Indonesia, deepen bilateral ties, and foster sustainability—especially in the agricultural sector.
In 2024, Indonesia’s agricultural commodity exports to Canada surpassed US$222 million. The main exports included rubber (US$115.4 million), cocoa (US$58.2 million), coffee (US$29.5 million), and pineapple (US$5.8 million).
This latest meeting marked a significant milestone in building a robust agricultural partnership and aligns with Indonesia’s vision of developing a modern, sustainable, and inclusive agricultural sector.
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Translator: Muhammad Harianto, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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