To enhance Indonesian exporters' understanding of Australia’s import regulations, the Indonesian Embassy in Canberra and the Indonesia-Australia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IA-CEPA) Katalis program organized a business forum during the Trade Expo Indonesia 2024. The forum provided valuable insights into the importance of comprehending the Biosecurity Import Conditions (Bicon)—an online platform that contains a database of import requirements for over 20,000 plant, animal, mineral, and biological products. Managed by the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry, Bicon is critical for exporters looking to enter the Australian market. The event, themed "The Best of Indonesia and Australia," held on October 12, 2024, at ICE BSD, continued the economic cooperation dialogue between the two nations, particularly in accelerating IA-CEPA implementation. According to Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency, the value of bilateral trade between the two countries reached USD 12.47 billion in 2023.
Indonesian Deputy Trade Minister Dr. Jerry Sambuaga emphasized the growth opportunities in Indonesia-Australia trade relations, highlighting the need for faster business and trade activities. He also expressed hope for the extension of the Katalis program to boost exports and create a more balanced trade relationship. Katalis, now in its fourth year, plays a significant role in expanding market access between Indonesia and Australia. Among its initiatives are facilitating Indonesian premium chocolate producers' entry into the Australian market and supporting compliance with Australian standards, such as irradiation facilities for mangosteen products in East Java. Paul Bartlett, Director of the IA-CEPA Katalis program, stressed the importance of navigating regulatory policies alongside understanding consumer needs, positioning IA-CEPA as a key framework for fostering stronger business ties.
