“We have an opportunity ahead with the IEU-CEPA, particularly the zero-tariff arrangement. We intend to make the best use of it,” Acting Director General for Strengthening the Competitiveness of Marine and Fishery Products Machmud said at a press conference here on Thursday.
For seaweed derivative products, such as agar-agar and handicrafts, he said Indonesia secured trade contracts worth USD 13.65 million for the European market, surpassing the target of USD 8 million.
Exports of other fishery commodities, including shrimp and tuna, had already increased before the IEU-CEPA, reflecting Europe’s strong demand for Indonesian marine products.
Machmud expressed hope that exports to Europe will grow further once the agreement’s zero-tariff provisions take effect.
“This will enable us to make the best possible use of opportunities in the European market,” he said.
The ministry also plans to intensify promotional efforts by inviting potential European buyers to visit Indonesian fish processing units directly.
“Insya Allah (God willing), the plan is for 2026 around May or June, after the expo in Barcelona in April 2026. We will invite them to Indonesia for promotional activities,” Machmud said.
Trade Minister Budi Santoso has set a target for the signing of the Indonesia-European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA) in January 2026.
Santoso added that the agreement is currently undergoing legal drafting and translation into multiple languages.
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Translator: Aji Cakti
Editor: Primayanti
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