Home > Features and Commentary > Features > Going global > Top tips for business in Indonesia
There are plenty of moves underway to make it easier to do business with Indonesia says NZTE Trade Commissioner Fiona Acheson.One of those is encouraging Indonesian airline Garuda to resume direct flights between the two countries. Inviting senior Indonesian business executives, including Garuda’s CEO, to New Zealand to watch the final of the Rugby World Cup was part of the strategy.“It’s a game changer when it happens,” says Acheson. “Our experience shows an air link boosts tourism, trade and education exchanges.”Getting New Zealand halal certifiers back on the list of those approved by the Indonesian halal authority is another target. Since local agencies fell off that list a couple of years ago, some Kiwi companies have been flying certifiers here from Indonesia, an expensive and time consuming process says Acheson.“MFAT (Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade) and MAF (Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry) have been working hard to secure an easier and more predictable solution for New Zealand exporters, she says.“We are one of the world’s most experienced halal exporters and, with Indonesia having the world’s largest Muslim population, there is growing potential for a wider range of New Zealand’s food and beverage products.”There’s also plenty of help available in market. NZTE has three business development managers in Indonesia and an Indonesian representative on its Southeast Asia Beachhead.In addition, says Tim Green, NZTE’s General Manager, International, Indonesia has a resident, experienced group of expatriate New Zealanders who are keen to assist new exporters. NZTE is also looking at whether it needs to increase resources to help businesses get the most out of Indonesia and it may run joint seminars with Australia, as happened earlier in Malaysia, to promote the benefits of the AANZFTA.
Indonesia Business Checklist• Get a good local partner• Visit often – remote control won’t work• Do due diligence before you commit• Sales cycles are long – think in 2-3 year timeframes• Pick the brains of Kiwis already established in the market
Back to Top
Get an economic overview and market research for Indonesia.
FIND OUT MORE
For new and more experienced exporters, the Export guide covers a range of topics from market research and managing risk to working with agents and distributors.
Find detailed information about doing business in key markets, including country information and market research.
