RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Trade Minister Budi Santoso launched online negotiations for a free trade agreement between Indonesia and Uzbekistan (the Indonesia-Uzbekistan FTA). This strategic collaboration aims to strengthen market access for national superior products in the Central Asian region.

Minister Budi signed a joint statement with Uzbekistan's Minister of Investment, Industry, and Trade Laziz Kudratov via video conference. This step marks a new chapter in a closer economic partnership between the two countries.

"The launch of the Indonesia-Uzbekistan FTA negotiations today marks an important step in strengthening trade and investment cooperation between the two countries. We are optimistic that this agreement will be a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable economic growth," said Budi in Jakarta on Monday, March 2, 2026.

The government is optimistic that this trade agreement will be a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable economic growth. This initiative reflects the vision of both countries to build an increasingly open and close economic partnership.

Minister Budi hopes this collaboration will bring tangible benefits by expanding market access for local products. Strengthening the value chain and creating business opportunities for MSMEs are key priorities in the negotiations.

Indonesia considers Uzbekistan a key partner in improving trade connections across the region and the world. The nation's geographic location offers the opportunity to serve as a gateway for Indonesian goods to access larger regional markets.

Total trade between the two countries reached USD 181.4 million in 2025. This transaction value has grown by 48.9 percent since 2021. "We are committed to ensuring the negotiation process is effective and transparent. We hope these negotiations will result in an agreement with real benefits," said Minister Budi.

Minister Laziz Kudratov emphasized Uzbekistan's strong interest in further improving bilateral relations with Indonesia. In his opinion, this collaboration shows steady, good progress that must be continued.

Minister Kudratov stated that the current investment and trade values still have significant room for improvement. The trade cooperation agreement will serve as a strong foundation for a systematic partnership between the two parties.

"We see the bilateral partnership showing steady and positive development. Our trade and investment values still have significant room for improvement," said Minister Kudratov.

The two ministers also agreed to establish a Joint Working Group to intensify the exchange of information and technical expertise. This mechanism is tasked with identifying mutually beneficial cooperation projects for businesses in both countries.

The working group will convene frequently to oversee implementation and plan a range of collaborative training initiatives. The next meeting is scheduled for Tashkent in June 2026 at an intergovernmental commission forum. (Misni Parjiati/Lasti Martina)