Jakarta (ANTARA) - A Saudi company plans to purchase ready-to-eat meals worth US$12 million from an Indonesian producer to meet the needs of Hajj pilgrims in 2026, according to Indonesia's Ministry of Trade.

In a statement on Tuesday, Trade Minister Budi Santoso said the ministry views the deal as a strategic move to strengthen trade ties between the two nations, particularly in Hajj services.

"All efforts to boost exports continue to be carried out to significantly drive Indonesia's economic growth," Santoso said.

The agreement was formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between PT Halalan Thayyiban Indonesia and Saudi Arabia’s 4J Company Limited in Jeddah on August 23. The signing was facilitated by the Indonesian Trade Promotion Center (ITPC) in the port city.

Under the deal, Halalan will supply 4J with halal-certified, high-quality ready-to-eat meals for pilgrims during the Hajj in Saudi Arabia.

Fajarini Puntodewi, Director General of National Export Development at the Trade Ministry, highlighted Indonesia's commitment to supporting the dietary needs of its Hajj pilgrims while expanding exports.

"This cooperation serves as a catalyst for increasing Indonesia’s exports to Saudi Arabia. Various opportunities are currently being explored so that products beyond food and beverages can also enter the Saudi market," she said.

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Translator: Maria Cicilia, Kuntum Khaira Riswan
Editor: Anton Santoso
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