Antara News·Indonesia·Friday, September 25, 2026 at 02:21 PM

Indonesia highlights US trade deal as key investment opportunity

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Suharsana Aji Sasra J. C., Yashinta Difa

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Trade Minister Budi Santoso emphasized the strategic importance of establishing a trade agreement with the United States (US), citing the country’s vast market potential and its position as Indonesia’s largest source of trade surplus.

“Why are we pursuing a trade agreement with America? Because the US accounts for our largest trade surplus,” Budi said during a press briefing in Tangerang City, Banten, on Friday.

Official data shows that Indonesian exports to the US reached US$30.96 billion in 2025, generating a trade surplus of US$18.11 billion. The US market currently accounts for approximately 11 percent of Indonesia’s total exports.

The US ranked first among Indonesia’s top five trade surplus partners in 2025, followed by India with US$13.49 billion, the Philippines with US$8.42 billion, the Netherlands with US$4.81 billion, and Vietnam with US$4.47 billion.

“These are our top five surplus markets. Therefore, we need a trade agreement with the US, as our export share to the US stands at 11 percent,” Budi said.

Beyond expanding direct market access, Budi said comprehensive trade agreements with major economic blocs, such as the US and the European Union, could also serve as catalysts for foreign direct investment.

By establishing trade agreements with major global markets, Indonesia could position itself as a manufacturing hub for companies from third-party countries seeking access to Western markets, he added.

Budi said a trade agreement with the US represents a major opportunity for Indonesia given the country’s large market potential.

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