Govt Studies Exports to the Netherlands

Govt Studies Exports to the Netherlands
Friday, 08 July, 2011 | 13:08 WIB

TEMPO Interactive, Jakarta:The government is studying exports to the Netherlands. The trade potential between both countries is predicted to be larger following the signing of an MoU.

The export collaboration includes products such as chocolate, coffee, tea, spices, palm oil and fish. Dutch European Affairs and International Cooperation spokesman Ben Knapen said Indonesia had much potential in the agriculture and fisheries sector.

"This can help the Netherlands cope with the food crisis, which is predicted to occur in 2050," he said yesterday.

The Netherlands has disbursed US$2 billion to import the commodities. All European countries have spent US$12 billion to import these products. Knapen said the cooperation would widen the Indonesian market in Europe.

Trade Minister Mari Elka Pangestu welcomed the program. She said Indonesia fully supported it to manage the anticipated global food crisis. "The cooperation benefits both parties," she added.

Maritime and Fisheries Minister Fadel Muhammad said he was certain the national fisheries products could enter the Netherlands because it met European Union standards.


TRI SUHARMAN