New Zealand and Indonesia have signed a new agricultural trade agreement as part of the New Zealand government’s plan to double export values within the next 10 years.
Todd McClay, the minister responsible for both agriculture and trade, said the agreement would open up new business opportunities for farmers and agribusinesses in both nations.
“This new agreement will make it easier for our agricultural sectors to collaborate, share expertise and open doors for trade and investment,” McClay said in a statement.
“It provides a framework for stronger cooperation in areas like livestock development, smart agriculture, biosecurity, agricultural research, and streamlined trade processes.”
McClay signed the new bilateral agreement in Jakarta on Thursday, together with Indonesian Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman.
The agreement will also establish a dedicated ‘Consultative Forum’ to align the regulations of both countries and minimise bureaucratic obstacles for exporters. The forum is expected to hold its inaugural meeting within a year.
“This is about building long-term commercial partnerships,” McClay said.
“It will help more New Zealand businesses connect directly with Indonesian partners, support our farmers to get their high-quality products into the market, and encourage … investment in agriculture from both sides.”
For McClay, agreements like this support increasing the value of our exports, boosting farmgate returns, and securing future economic growth.