Indonesia considers New Zealand a significant trading partner, with both countries aiming to increase their bilateral trade value to NZD 4 billion or approximately USD 2.4 billion by 2024. During a bilateral meeting with New Zealand's Minister of Trade, Todd McClay, in Paris, France, on Thursday, May 2nd, Deputy Minister of Trade (Wamendag) Jerry Sambuaga emphasized the government's commitment to enhancing two-way trade. Efforts to achieve this goal include facilitating increased market access for Indonesian tropical fruits in New Zealand. Wamendag Jerry highlighted bananas, mangoes, and papayas as potential fruits for the New Zealand market. Furthermore, given New Zealand's population of only 5.2 million, Indonesia sees an opportunity to boost trade in services, particularly in the Movement of Natural Persons (MNP) sector, to meet New Zealand's labor needs. New Zealand has committed to the Indonesia Special Work Visa program, allocating quotas for 100 Indonesian chefs, 20 halal slaughterers, and 20 language assistant teachers.
Under the Indonesia-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) and the draft chapter of the trade agreement on sustainable agriculture, Indonesia has proposed areas for cooperation, including technology-based investment, research and development, and the exchange of best practices. Indonesia aims to deepen cooperation with New Zealand in key areas to promote sustainable agriculture practices and mutual prosperity. Wamendag Jerry also expressed appreciation for New Zealand's support for Indonesia's accession efforts to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Indonesia seeks to become the first ASEAN country to join the OECD, which would offer significant benefits to both the nation and the international community. Regarding the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), Indonesia is evaluating its potential accession and conducting intensive consultations with partner countries. Wamendag Jerry expressed hope for New Zealand's support as the Chair of CPTPP 2023 in guiding this process. Total trade between Indonesia and New Zealand in January-February 2024 amounted to USD 284.5 million, with Indonesian exports totaling USD 98.6 million and imports from New Zealand amounting to USD 185.9 million.
