The Indonesian Express
In order to strengthen bilateral trade and investment relations, the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) and the United States Chamber of Commerce (US) officially signed the latest memorandum of understanding (MoU) which is valid for the next two years. This MoU comes amidst important momentum after the publication of the National Trade Estimate Report 2025. The agreement is a real step for Indonesia in reducing trade barriers, especially non-tariff barriers, and opening up opportunities for joint economic growth in the Indo-Pacific region. Chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Anindya Novyan Bakrie called this agreement a positive step and a breath of fresh air for the business world and workforce in Indonesia. "This is good news for the Indonesian economy, Indonesian entrepreneurs, and of course workers in Indonesia," said the man who is familiarly called Anin, quoted from a press release received on Saturday, May 3, 2025. Anin emphasized that this cooperation will expand opportunities for labor-intensive industries that absorb millions of workers. "We know that Indonesia exports a lot of things like footwear, including rubber, electronics, and garments. Currently, these three industries employ around 2.1 million workers. Hopefully, this number can grow even bigger," said Anin On the other hand, he also considered that this cooperation could help US business actors gain greater access to the Indonesian market. "If trade can be more balanced, of course we can also be partners for them, for example in exporting soybeans for tempeh, cotton for the garment industry, dairy products, and wheat. This is closely related to labor-intensive industries and the agricultural sector in Indonesia," explained Anin. Look for potential investment opportunities Furthermore, Anin also touched on investment opportunities that could be driven by this cooperation, especially in strategic sectors. He said that Indonesia receives foreign investment of around USD100 billion a year. If US business actors are more confident, this will be good for the national economy. "This is a good day, and hopefully it will bring benefits to the people of Indonesia. Earlier I spoke and also signed with the Vice President of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Yes, hopefully the benefits can be felt," he added. Anin continued, the Indonesian Government has taken concrete steps to create a more open trade climate. "We are pleased to convey that the President has instructed the elimination of various non-tariff barriers, such as local content obligations, import quotas, and unnecessary bureaucracy. Hopefully, reciprocal tariffs can be reviewed, reduced, and if possible eliminated," said Anin. Meanwhile, Senior Vice President and Head of International of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce John Murphy emphasized the importance of closer collaboration to maximize the potential of economic relations between the two countries. He also said that the U.S. Chamber of Commerce appreciates its long-term relationship with the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and emphasized that the Indonesian market is a high priority for its members.