### Indonesia's Ambitious Trade Goals: Aiming for EU Free Trade Agreement by 2026 Indonesia is on the verge of finalizing a significant free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Union (EU) by 2026, marking the culmination of nearly a decade of negotiations. The Indonesian trade ministry official, Djatmiko Bris Witjaksono, announced this goal following the latest round of discussions, which have been ongoing for nine years. The agreement is expected to provide Indonesia with zero tariffs on 80% of its exports to the EU and the removal of various non-tariff barriers, enhancing market access for Indonesian goods [https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/indonesia-aims-seal-eu-free-trade-agreement-2026][https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/southeast-asia/article/3313507/indonesia-eu-conclude-nine-years-free-trade-negotiations]. ### Structure of the Trade Agreement Negotiations 1. **Background of Negotiations** - Indonesia and the EU have been engaged in FTA discussions for nine years, with the aim of reducing trade barriers and enhancing economic cooperation [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/3450671-indonesia-poised-to-seal-eu-trade-deal-after-9-years]. 2. **Current Status and Expectations** - The Indonesian government anticipates concluding the negotiations by the end of June 2025, as confirmed by various officials, including Chief Economic Minister Airlangga Hartarto [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/headlines/3450782-indonesia-and-eu-close-to-sealing-historic-trade-deal]. 3. **Key Benefits of the Agreement** - The FTA is projected to eliminate tariffs on 80% of Indonesian exports to the EU, significantly boosting trade and economic relations between the two regions [https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/southeast-asia/article/3313507/indonesia-eu-conclude-nine-years-free-trade-negotiations]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Tariff Reductions**: The agreement will provide zero tariffs for 80% of Indonesian exports, which is a substantial benefit for the country's economy [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/headlines/3450782-indonesia-and-eu-close-to-sealing-historic-trade-deal]. - **Duration of Negotiations**: The negotiations have spanned nine years, indicating the complexity and importance of the agreement for both parties [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/3450671-indonesia-poised-to-seal-eu-trade-deal-after-9-years]. - **Expected Conclusion**: The anticipated wrap-up of discussions by the end of June 2025 highlights the urgency and commitment from both sides to finalize the deal [https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/asean/indonesia-expects-conclude-free-trade-talks-eu-end-june]. ### Conclusion: A Historic Trade Milestone for Indonesia In summary, Indonesia is poised to finalize a historic free trade agreement with the EU by 2026, following nearly a decade of negotiations. This agreement promises significant economic benefits, including zero tariffs on a majority of Indonesian exports, which could enhance trade relations and economic growth. The key points are as follows: 1. **Long Negotiation Period**: Nine years of discussions underline the complexity of the agreement. 2. **Significant Economic Benefits**: Zero tariffs on 80% of exports will greatly benefit Indonesian exporters. 3. **Expected Conclusion**: The negotiations are set to conclude by the end of June 2025, marking a pivotal moment in Indonesia-EU relations. This agreement represents a crucial step for Indonesia in expanding its global trade footprint and fostering stronger economic ties with Europe [https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/international/indonesia-aims-seal-eu-free-trade-agreement-2026][https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/southeast-asia/article/3313507/indonesia-eu-conclude-nine-years-free-trade-negotiations].