AN Agriculture Co-operation Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in Jakarta on 27 January by Australian agriculture minister David Littleproud and his Indonesian counterpart, Dr Syahrul Yasin Limpo.
Minister Littleproud said the MoU was an official recognition of the tangible agriculture trade that flows between our nations and the desire for that trade to grow.
The MoU was a highlight of the three-day visit which saw the minister meet with key ministers of the Indonesian government as well as agribusiness representatives.
Mr Littleproud said, “Indonesia is Australia’s 4th largest agriculture, fisheries and forestry export market, valued at $2.9 billion in the 2020/21 year”.
Indonesia is Australia’s largest market for wheat ($1.2b in 2020/21), largest market for live cattle ($584m in 2020/21), and fifth-largest market for beef ($287m in 2020/21).
“The two-way trade for the agriculture, fisheries and forestry sectors was $4.07 billion which shows that Indonesia is not just a respected partner but a valued one as well,” Mr Littleproud said.
The MoU has an implementing Work Group with four taskforces, which will focus on livestock and animal products, crop and plant products, modern systems and processes as well as agriculture research and education.
“Under the MoU, our nations will co-operate to facilitate mutually beneficial trade. In simple terms it is a win-win for both our countries,” Mr Littleproud said.
“Through the three days I was able to raise a number of trade and market access issues of interest to Australia and reiterated my commitment to work with Indonesia to ensure both countries can take full advantage of the Indonesia-Australia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.
“I also welcomed the engagement of Indonesia on the Australian Agriculture Visa and welcomed the progress being made,” he said.
The itinerary included a site visit at Bogasari Flour Mill – the largest integrated flour mill in Indonesia, and one of Australia’s single largest agricultural commodity customers in the country. It also included a visit to Indonesia’s premier high-end supermarket chain, Ranch Market, where specialty Australian produce is sold, including red meat and stonefruit.
