TEMPO.CO, Tangerang - President Joko 'Jokowi' Widodo asked Indonesian businesses to make use of the trade tension between the US and China. Jokowi said that the momentum can be used by businesses to expand their export market, particularly those that the two countries leave from.
"I remind you that there is a battle; a trade war. Use this opportunity to seize markets that the warring parties left behind," the president said when opening the Trade Expo Indonesia at the Indonesia Convention Exhibition, in BSD City, Tangerang, on Wednesday, Oct. 24.
Widodo understands that Indonesian businesses would face some difficulties to enter said markets, but he said that behind every obstacle lies an opportunity.
"This is an opportunity, this is an opportunity that can and should be used as well as possible," he said.
Jokowi further said that the situation could help Indonesia improve its trade balance and curb the current account deficit.
In addition, the president said that Indonesian businesses must never stop tapping non-traditional markets like countries in South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. He commanded ambassadors in said nations to help businessmen enter their markets.
Trade Minister Enggartiasto Lukita said his department will seek to comply with Widodo's instruction, particularly in finalizing 13 trade agreements by next year, in a bid to open new markets.
AHMAD FAIZ IBNU SANI
