Jakarta (ANTARA) – President Prabowo Subianto described Indonesia as a gateway for the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) to the ASEAN market, which has a population of approximately 680 million people.
In his address at the 11th Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) in Vladivostok, Russia, on Thursday, Prabowo expressed hope that trade between Indonesia and EAEU member states, including Russia, would increase through the Indonesia-Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement (I-EAEU FTA).
“For the Eurasian business community, Indonesia could serve as a gateway to ASEAN. We are the largest market in the region, a central player in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), and now a free trade partner,” he said.
Prabowo noted that Indonesia has several key sectors capable of meeting the needs of Eurasian countries, ranging from palm oil, coffee, fisheries, rubber, textiles, furniture, and consumer goods to its young workforce.
According to Prabowo, trade with Indonesia under the I-EAEU FTA would also provide Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia with access to the ASEAN market.
The head of state acknowledged that Southeast Asia has not always been at peace. However, he said all member states recognize the importance of enhancing prosperity by creating opportunities through consultation rather than confrontation, and cooperation rather than division.
“Indonesia invites Russia and EAEU members to help expand that peace by bringing Eurasia closer to Southeast Asia,” he said.
Prabowo also recalled that the I-EAEU FTA was signed in St. Petersburg on December 21, 2025. Under the agreement, the EAEU and the Eurasian Economic Commission agreed to eliminate or reduce import duties on 11,882 tariff lines, or 90 percent of traded goods.
Indonesia has secured parliamentary approval for the agreement. In July 2026, the government signed a presidential regulation ratifying the agreement.
Prabowo encouraged EAEU countries to begin their respective ratification processes so that implementation of the agreement can proceed as scheduled.
“I want the goods, routes, and contracts to be ready when the rate reductions take effect. This forum must serve as the marketplace for these agreements,” he said.
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Translator: Prisca T, Asri Mayang Sari
Editor: Primayanti
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