The Indonesian Ministry of Trade has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA) to enhance trade policy research. Minister of Trade Budi Santoso emphasized the need for high-quality, research-based trade policies to navigate today’s complex global economy. The collaboration aims to boost policy effectiveness and strengthen human resources in the trade sector. The Trade Policy Agency (BK Perdag) is encouraged to fully utilize this partnership to generate relevant and impactful research.
Santoso highlighted that data-driven and well-researched trade strategies are essential, referencing China’s success in long-term planning as an example. He expressed confidence in ERIA’s credibility to support the Ministry's priorities through insightful research and strategic input. ERIA President Tetsuya Watanabe echoed this commitment, stating that the institution is dedicated to helping Indonesia develop adaptive and future-oriented trade policies that also contribute to regional growth.