In anticipation of finalizing the Indonesia-Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement (I-EAEU FTA), Indonesia hosted the "Indonesia-EAEU Digital Technology Dialogue" on September 24, 2024, in Bali. This event brought together seven digital businesses from the EAEU and 15 Indonesian digital companies to explore opportunities for expanding digital economic cooperation within the FTA framework. Participants included three Russian firms, such as the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs (RSPP), Softline Group, and Twenty Four TTL, as well as Investbanq from Kazakhstan and Fitjab from Kyrgyzstan. Indonesian representatives included various digital firms like Andalin, Zi.Care, Agronum Tech, Tera Logistics Indonesia, and nine startups from Bali. Ambassador Umar Hadi emphasized the urgent need for developing the digital economy, highlighting the significant potential for collaboration between Indonesia and the EAEU, particularly in diversifying markets.
During the event, a panel featuring key figures from both regions discussed readiness for enhancing digital economic cooperation. Boni Pudjianto from Kemenkominfo set a goal for Indonesia to raise its digital economy's contribution to 19% of GDP by 2045, requiring collaboration among domestic and international stakeholders in funding and technology. Kira Danilcheva from the EEC echoed this sentiment, urging stakeholders to leverage the I-EAEU FTA for joint projects and technology transfers. A highlight of the event was a business pitching session, allowing participants to network and identify collaboration opportunities. The digital economy is a shared priority for both parties, with the EAEU’s Digital Agenda 2025 and Indonesia’s Vision for Digital Indonesia 2045 serving as foundations for building partnerships. As a customs union comprising Russia, Belarus, Armenia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan, the EAEU is managed by the Eurasian Economic Council based in Moscow. The dialogue underscores Indonesia's leadership in the I-EAEU FTA negotiations, which aim to enhance market access for products from both regions and promote cooperation in the digital economy.
