Indonesia is urging Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) economies to prioritize building infrastructure that advances and empowers women's participation in international trade. Cooperation through APEC should address the challenges women face, opening opportunities to enhance their involvement in global trade. This was emphasized by Djatmiko Bris Witjaksono, Director General of International Trade Negotiations at the Ministry of Trade, during the Joint Meeting of APEC Ministers for Women and Trade in Arequipa, Peru, on May 17. The meeting, concluded by Peruvian President Dina Boluarte, was the first to bring together APEC ministers responsible for women and trade. Accompanying Djatmiko was Indra Gunawan, Acting Deputy for Gender Equality at the Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection (PPPA). Minister of Trade Zulkifli Hasan noted the historic agreement among APEC ministers to issue a joint statement promoting women's empowerment through trade in the Asia-Pacific region. Djatmiko emphasized that advancing women's economic empowerment should not stop at identifying key issues. He called on APEC ministers to establish national priorities to build foundational infrastructure supporting women's economic participation. Women play an increasingly significant role in today's global trade agenda. "As policymakers, creating an ecosystem that supports women's participation in all trade processes is crucial," he said.
Djatmiko explained that promoting women's inclusion through gender mainstreaming is a critical aspect of Indonesia's regulations, contributing to increased female participation across various sectors. He added that the advancement of women's inclusion has been prioritized in the National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN), with each ministry providing capacity-building programs for women, particularly in micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Public-private partnerships are also crucial in supporting women in business, especially in accessing finance. "Indonesia believes that connecting women with financial resources, digital business, training support, and capacity building can enhance their economic capabilities," he stated. Indra Gunawan added that championing women's entrepreneurship within APEC holds significant potential for advancing the regional trade agenda. Supporting female entrepreneurs can drive economic growth and sustainable development across the region.
