Indonesia Eyes Mexico as Gateway to Wider Americas Market

  • 13 Jun 2026 18:57 WIB
  •  Voice of Indonesia
Key Points
  • Indonesia is looking to deepen economic cooperation with Mexico and position the country as a strategic entry point to markets across North, Central, and South America.
  • Mexico’s strategic trade links with the United States and Canada could provide Indonesian exporters with broader access to markets throughout the Americas.

RRI.CO.ID, Mexico City - Indonesia sees growing opportunities to deepen economic ties with Mexico and use the country as a strategic gateway into North, Central and South American markets, Indonesia’s ambassador to Mexico said on Friday, June 12, 2026.

“To date bilateral trade stands at USD 4.6 billion and Indonesia runs a surplus of USD 2.8 billion,” Ambassador Toferry Primanda Soetikno told reporters in Mexico City on June 12, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

He added that while those figures are substantial, the potential for further growth is far greater. Toferry, who began his posting in Mexico seven months ago and is also accredited to Belize, El Salvador and Guatemala, pointed to several developments that could expand market access for Indonesian goods.

“Mexico is currently negotiating a trade agreement with the United States and there will be a decision in July 2026,” he said, expressing hope the outcome could open larger opportunities for Indonesian exporters.

Toferry also noted that Mexico’s free-trade ties with Canada provide additional avenues for Indonesian products. “So Mexico can become a gateway for Indonesian products to countries in North America, Central America and South America.”

Global geopolitical disruptions, the ambassador said, have prompted many Mexican businesses to search for alternative suppliers, a dynamic Indonesia can leverage. Demand in Mexico has already been strong for commodities such as timber, plastic goods and medical equipment, he added.

Automotive exports are another promising sector, which Mexico ranks as the third-largest export market for Indonesian-made cars. “Some car models familiar in Indonesia are commonly seen on Mexican roads.”

Tourism and cultural exchange also figure in the embassy’s strategy. Toferry argued that Mexico’s large pool of travelers, many of whom seek new destinations beyond Europe, represents an opportunity for Indonesian tourism.

“Many Mexicans enjoy culture, which is an advantage for Indonesia given the cultural wealth across our regions,” he said.

To amplify awareness and build ties, the Indonesian embassy in Mexico has staged an Indonesia Festival, opened an Indonesian Cultural Center within the embassy compound, and participated in local promotional events. Those outreach efforts aim to translate diplomatic and commercial openings into concrete trade and tourism growth across the Americas. ***

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