Treasurer reaffirms commitment to Indonesia

Treasurer and Minister for Trade Tim Nicholls today reaffirmed Queensland’s commitment to strengthening ties with Indonesia, with a visit to the proposed site of Trade and Investment Queensland’s (TIQ) new Jakarta office.

Mr Nicholls said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia had, late yesterday, officially approved the Newman Government’s request to establish a TIQ representative office in Jakarta.

Speaking from Jakarta, where he is currently meeting key Indonesian Government and business representatives, Mr Nicholls said the Newman Government recognised Indonesia as a vital trading partner for Queensland.

“Indonesia, Queensland’s largest neighbour, is home to more than 240 million people and has a rapidly growing middle class,” Mr Nicholls said.

“In the last three years economic growth in Indonesia has averaged more than six per cent, meaning it consistently ranks among the world’s most impressive emerging markets.

“Queensland’s proximity to and strong ties with Indonesia means we are well placed to capitalise on the country’s robust growth forecasts.”

Mr Nicholls took time during his visit to inspect the proposed site for TIQ’s new Jakarta office, announced after a comprehensive review of the State Government’s export and investment agency.

“Indonesia’s continued economic growth provides enormous opportunities for our State, particularly for our four economic pillars” he said.

“Two-way merchandise trade between Indonesia and Queensland in 2011-12 (latest financial year data) was valued at $2.1 billion, providing a major contribution to the State’s economy.

“Increasingly, more Queensland businesses - particularly in the education and agribusiness sectors - are seeking advice from TIQ about opportunities in Indonesia.

“Opening this office is about assisting our local businesses and fostering trade opportunities with the economic powerhouse of our region.

“My visit builds on the great work undertaken by Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry John McVeigh to rebuild trade relations that were damaged by the Federal Labor Government’s ill-conceived ban on live cattle exports.”  

Mr Nicholls will tomorrow meet with Garuda Indonesia CEO and President Emirsyah Satar to thank him for his commitment to Queensland and to congratulate the company on opening a new office in Brisbane.

“Trade relations between Queensland and Indonesia will be further enhanced with the aid of direct daily flights, starting tomorrow,” Mr Nicholls said.

“This is a major coup for our great State and will further increase tourism and business travel between our regions.”

[ENDS] 31 July 2013

Media Contact: Treasurer’s Office +61 7 3224 6900