Airlangga Hartarto Says Indonesia-EU Trade Deal to Be Signed on Sept 23
Key Takeaways
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JAKARTA, Investortrust.id — Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto says Indonesia and the European Union will sign their long-awaited Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, or IEU-CEPA, on Tuesday, Sept 23, 2025.
Speaking at a luncheon and discussion hosted by the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry at Menara Kadin Indonesia in Jakarta on Thursday, Sept 4, Airlangga confirmed that the pact has cleared political processes in the European Parliament. European Commissioner Maros Sefcovic and other delegates are scheduled to travel to Indonesia for the signing ceremony.
“For IEU-CEPA, God willing, it will be signed on Sept 23. Both the law and the agreement will be signed,” Airlangga said.
The minister added that Indonesia is also in technical discussions with the United States to expand trade cooperation beyond existing frameworks. “America is enthusiastic to continue negotiations with Indonesia,” he noted.
Strategic Bridge to Europe
James T Riady, Vice Chairman for International Affairs at the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, described IEU-CEPA as a strategic bridge linking Indonesia’s innovation, resources, and talent with Europe’s vast market.
Through the deal, Indonesia expects reduced barriers for a wide range of products including palm oil, timber, textiles, electronics, and creative industry goods.
“Today Indonesia stands at a crossroads of global trade history,” James said during a preparatory event on Aug 4 in Jakarta. He stressed that the agreement is not merely about tariffs or numbers on paper, but about turning aspirations into opportunities.
“This means our farmers will see their harvests reach markets in Belgium and across Europe. Artisans in Jepara will find their furniture in American homes. Young Indonesian engineers will contribute to electric vehicle production worldwide,” he explained.
James emphasized that seizing these opportunities requires entrepreneurial courage, cross-sector collaboration, and creativity. He also underlined the importance of strengthening supply chains while meeting internationally recognized environmental and labor standards.
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