The Territory Labor Government has welcomed a signing of the Indonesia Australia Comprehensive Economic Partnership (IA-CEPA) between Australia and Indonesia.
The agreement creates an opportunity for closer economic engagement and will open new markets and opportunities for businesses, primary producers, service providers and investors.
The agreement provides greater certainty of market access for Territory goods and reduces tariffs.
Indonesia is a priority market for the Territory and is the Territory’s fifth largest trading partner and third largest export destination.
Two industry sectors to receive the greatest benefit through this partnership are agriculture and international education. Both are growth sectors identified by the Territory Labor Government as creating jobs and boosting the economy.
Indonesia is the Territory’s largest live cattle export market. 324,856 head of cattle came through the Port of Darwin to the end of December 2018, up by 79,312 head (32%) for the same period in 2017.
Education is Australia's key services export to Indonesia, valued at $802 million with more than 15,000 Indonesians currently studying in Australia. Approximately five percent of international students studying in the Territory are from Indonesia.
Quotes Attributable to the Chief Minister:
“The Territory Labor Government’s number one priority is jobs for Territorians.
“Strengthening relationships and business ties with Indonesia, one of our largest trading partners, is essential to improving access for Territory businesses to the vast markets to our north. Maximising opportunities for Territory businesses to establish and grow trade and attract investment to the Territory is paramount.
“We have a long standing and strong relationship with Indonesia and we continue to invest in our relationship by engaging Mr Bill Farmer AO, previous Ambassador to Indonesia, and Dr John Ackerman, to provide strategic advice and on the ground representation in Indonesia.
“Today, Indonesia and Australia are increasingly important strategic anchors in the Indo-Pacific region, as recognised by the Indonesia–Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
“The Territory looks forward to welcoming Indonesian athletes at the Arafura Games. In April this year, Darwin will proudly host the Conference of Australian Indonesian Youth (CAUSINDY) coinciding with the Arafura Games.
“In 2017 I lead a delegation to Indonesia, and have supported Assistant Minister Kate Worden’s visit last year, where she met with the Indonesian Minister for Trade. Our discussions included the IA-CEPA and the special trade and cultural relationship with the Territory.”
Media Contact: Maria Billias 0401 119 746