Indonesia eyes expanded cocoa exports through new trade deals

Indonesia’s Trade Minister Budi Santoso said the country is poised to strengthen its role in the global cocoa and chocolate market. He cited rising export performance and the opening of premium market opportunities, driven by Indonesia’s network of trade agreements.

Indonesia has ratified 25 free‑trade pacts, with two more awaiting ratification and 11 still under negotiation. These accords aim to remove tariff and non‑tariff barriers, easing market access for Indonesian cocoa products. The United States, Indonesia’s top trading partner, already accounts for about US$30.9 billion, roughly 11 % of total Indonesian exports, and is highlighted as a key destination for chocolate exports. The forthcoming Indonesia‑European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, slated for signing in September 2026, is expected to grant preferential treatment for cocoa and chocolate entering the EU market.

The minister emphasized that the implementation of these agreements will allow Indonesian cocoa producers to compete more effectively abroad, supporting the sector’s growth and positioning Indonesia as a major supplier of cocoa and chocolate worldwide.