IA-CEPA: It’s Time to Get to Know Your Neighbour Better

[ITPC Sydney – NEWS]

ITPC Sydney partner, do you know why Australia needs to know us better? Indonesia holds a very strategic location and provide opportunity for business sectors in both countries, in addition to the implementation of Indonesia-Australia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IA-CEPA) since 5 July 2020, which will provide Australian and Indonesian businesses an opportunity to expand and diversify this economic partnership. So we definitely have potential to elevate our position from the Australia’s 13th largest trading partner.

ITPC Sydney in collaboration with KJRI Sydney and Australia – Indonesia Business Council (AIBC) Queensland held a Business Networking Session on Thursday, 25 February 2021 from 17.00 – 19.30 AEST at the Hilton Hotel Brisbane. This activity was attended by 36 AIBC Queensland members from the academic, government, consultant, importer, financial services and business sectors.

The event began with remarks from the Indonesian Consul General in Sydney, Mr. Heru H. Subolo. “The 0% import duty needs to be utilised by business people in Indonesia and Australia. The geographic proximity of Indonesia – Australia should also be used by Indonesia as a trading and investment partner for Australia,” he said.

Afterwards, John Kimlin, Board Member of AIBC Queensland, and Ayu Siti Maryam, Director of ITPC Sydney gave presentations while Colin Brown from AIBC Queensland guided the presentation. He emphasised the importance of the Queensland business sector in implementing IA-CEPA. “AIBC will always support the business entities in two countries to implement IA-CEPA,” said John.

“Indonesia has capability to build automobiles from scratch. From AC, compressor, battery, to body parts and component like seat, safety glass, and spark plugs, you name it, many manufacturers can provide it,” added Ayu after explaining the five export and import commodities of Indonesia – Australia.