Harahap: Nigeria, Indonesia Trade Volume Reached $5bn in 2022

Gilbert Ekugbe

The Indonesia Ambassador to Nigeria, Usra Harahap, has stated that the trade volume between Nigeria and Indonesia has hit $4.78 billion in 2022.

Addressing a press briefing to announce the Trade Expo Indonesia (TEI) 2023 scheduled to hold in BSD City in Indonesia, Harahap said Indonesia’s import from Nigeria stood at $4.32 billion while export from Nigeria to Indonesia hit $459 million last year.

He said the current trade volume reflects the high untapped potential of Indonesia and Nigeria trade which he said could be further improved going forward into 2023.

According to him, in 2022 with the huge volume of trade realized at the TEI event that attained $15.8 billion, shows the confidence it has in Nigeria as a strategic partner with Indonesia, predicting that Nigeria stands a better chance in 2023 to stake higher trade volume owing to its huge and rich market potentials.

“This is also a call to other countries in the region to key into this opportunity and attract more business partnerships with Indonesia, “he said.

He pointed out that the TEI 2023 is a continuation from the previous edition which will further present seven product zones which includes Food & Beverages; Fashion, Textile & Accessories; Chemical, Energy & Industrial Product; Beauty & Personal Care; Medical Equipment & Healthcare; Home Living; Digital & Services. 

Also speaking, the Director, Indonesia Trade Promotion, Lagos, Mr. Hendro Jonathan, said the trade between Nigeria and Indonesia is growing exponentially, adding that both countries must seek better and improved ways to strengthen bilateral trade relationships.

On his part, the president, Nigerian-Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Ishmael Balogun, said arrangements have been put in place to ensure a seamless travel experience from Nigeria to Indonesia, adding that all visa application challenges experienced last year has been addressed.