The Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Mincetur) has started the first round of negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA) between Peru and Indonesia. This first round will take place in Lima from May 27 to 30 and will be held in a hybrid format.
Elizabeth Galdo, Minister of Foreign Trade and Tourism, highlighted Peru's position as one of the main exporters of fruits worldwide and the importance of this agreement for Peruvian agricultural exports of cocoa beans, grapes, and fresh pomegranates to Indonesia. Galdo also stated that this FTA represents an invaluable opportunity to improve market access, reduce trade barriers, and create new opportunities for citizens and businesses.
The Indonesian ambassador to Peru, Ricky Suhendar, the chief negotiator of Peru, Gerardo Meza, and the chief negotiator of Indonesia, Johni Marta, will participate in the inaugural session of negotiations, chaired by Minister Galdo. Seven thematic tables are discussed in this round: market access, cooperation, legal and institutional matters, rules of origin, technical barriers to trade, customs procedures and trade facilitation, trade defense, and sanitary and phytosanitary measures.
Indonesia, the ninth most important economy for Peru's trade in Asia and the fifth largest economy on this continent is a significant market with more than 276 million inhabitants. Peruvian exports to Indonesia have experienced growth, led by an increase in the sale of natural dyes, pharmaceuticals, fishmeal, and minerals such as zinc and iron.
Source: eleconomista.com.mx