INTA MEPs in Indonesia to discuss new trade deal
An International Trade Committee (INTA) delegation is in Indonesia next week to discuss the scope and the potential of the new trade deal under negotiation with governmental, parliamentary, civil society and industry representatives.
The delegation visits the country from 22-24 May as the EU and Indonesia are working on deepening trade relations by a comprehensive free trade agreement. The visit is set in between the second and third negotiation rounds.
MEPs will meet governmental, parliamentary, civil society and industry representatives to discuss opportunities, expectations and possible sensitive issues for the new trade deal, including non-tariff barriers and environmental issues linked to the palm oil industry.
The delegation is headed by INTA standing rapporteur for South Asia Sajjad Karim (ECR, UK), (S&D, UK) and consist of Adam Szejnfeld (EPP, PL), Pedro Silva Pereira (S&D, PO), Tiziana Beghin (EFDD, IT) and Hannu Takkula (ALDE, FI).
Background:
Bilateral trade in goods amounted to €25.3 bn in 2015, with EU exports worth €10 bn and EU imports €15.4 bn. The EU is Indonesia's fourth partner, while Indonesia is 30th in the overall EU trade. Trade in services in 2014 amounted to €6 bn in 2014, with EU exports amounting to €4.1 bn and Indonesia's exports amounting to €1.9 bn.
Indonesia benefits from trade preferences granted by the EU Generalised Scheme of Preferences, under which about 30% of total imports from Indonesia enjoyed lower duties. To further relations, negotiations for a free trade agreement started in July 2016 and two rounds have been held so far. The deal would cover tariffs, non-tariff barriers to trade, trade in services and investment, public procurement, competition rules, intellectual property rights as well as sustainable development.
Contacts:
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Bálint Péter LINDER
Press Officer