The Indonesia–EAEU trade relations are set to reach a new milestone as Indonesia prepares to sign the Indonesia–Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement (I‑EAEU FTA) in December 2025. The agreement marks a strategic step in Indonesia’s efforts to expand export markets and deepen economic cooperation with Eurasian countries.
As coordination between both sides intensifies, the government expects the signing to take place during the upcoming Eurasian Economic Union Summit in St. Petersburg, Russia. The deal is expected to strengthen trade flows, support export-driven growth, and improve Indonesia’s access to a large regional market.
Indonesia–EAEU Trade Deal Nears Final Signing
Indonesia and the Eurasian Economic Union are currently finalizing preparations for the signing of the free trade agreement. According to Trade Minister Budi Santoso, both sides continue to coordinate closely to confirm the timing and venue. At the same time, all EAEU member states are completing their respective internal procedures to ensure the agreement can proceed smoothly.
“This agreement is expected to be signed at the ministerial level in the presence of heads of state attending the upcoming EAEU Summit,” Budi said in an official statement. He added that the government maintains intensive communication with the EAEU Secretariat to align technical and diplomatic arrangements.
Indonesia targets December 20–21, 2025, as the earliest possible signing date. The planned signing in St. Petersburg underscores the importance of the agreement at the highest political level. It also reflects mutual commitment from both Indonesia and EAEU members to conclude the long‑running negotiation process.
Indonesia–EAEU FTA Targets Export Growth
The Indonesia–EAEU FTA aims to significantly boost Indonesia’s export performance in the Eurasian region. The Ministry of Trade has set an ambitious goal to gradually double exports to EAEU markets. Officials believe this target remains achievable due to the strong demand for Indonesia’s key commodities.
Crude palm oil and textiles stand out as leading export products expected to benefit from improved market access. The EAEU region offers a large and growing textile market, which provides Indonesia with opportunities to expand its manufacturing exports. Reduced trade barriers under the free trade agreement are expected to improve competitiveness and lower costs for Indonesian exporters.
In addition, the government views the agreement as a tool to diversify export destinations. By strengthening trade ties with Eurasian economies, Indonesia aims to reduce reliance on traditional markets while opening new growth channels for domestic industries.
Trade Value, Imports, and Economic Impact
Trade data highlights the growing importance of the Eurasian Economic Union for Indonesia. In 2024, total trade between Indonesia and the EAEU reached US$4.1 billion. Indonesia recorded exports worth US$1.5 billion, reflecting a 36 percent increase compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, imports from the EAEU totaled US$2.4 billion, marking a 4 percent year‑on‑year decline.
Indonesia mainly imports capital goods and essential commodities from the region, including wheat and fertilizers. These imports support domestic food security and agricultural productivity. At the same time, stronger export growth under the free trade agreement could help narrow the trade gap and improve the overall trade balance.
The government expects the I‑EAEU FTA to create a more balanced trade structure. By encouraging two‑way trade and investment, the agreement may also support industrial development and supply chain resilience.
Strategic Outlook for Eurasian Trade Cooperation
Beyond trade figures, the Indonesia–EAEU agreement carries long‑term strategic value. The government considers the free trade pact essential for expanding Indonesia’s global economic footprint and strengthening cooperation with non‑traditional partners. EAEU member states include Russia, Kazakhstan, Armenia, Belarus, and Kyrgyzstan, all of which offer diverse market opportunities.
Budi also acknowledged the constructive role of EAEU leaders in advancing the agreement. “We have noted and appreciated that several EAEU leaders, including Kazakhstan President Kassym‑Jomart Tokayev, have confirmed their attendance at the upcoming EAEU Summit,” he said.
As the December summit approaches, expectations remain high that the Indonesia–EAEU FTA will soon move from negotiation to implementation. Once signed, the agreement is expected to serve as a foundation for deeper economic cooperation and sustained export growth in the years ahead.
Source: swa.co.id, goodnewsfromindonesia.id
Image: Kemendag
