Maximising IA-CEPA’s impact on bilateral trade through Katalis
30 November 2023: A breakfast dialogue held by Asialink Business in collaboration with Katalis in Melbourne in August illustrated just how dynamic the Australia-Indonesia economic relationship really is.
Leigh Howard, CEO of Asialink Business, shared insights into the evolving partnership between Australia and Indonesia, highlighting the strides made and the opportunities that lay ahead. Paul Bartlett, Director of IA-CEPA ECP Katalis, outlined Katalis' significant role in fostering connections and partnerships between businesses in both countries. His discourse underscored the intention behind Katalis — to serve as a catalyst in recognising and nurturing trade and investment opportunities under the IA-CEPA.
For example, organisations and projects like tourism operator TanaMori can achieve global sustainable destination standard certification because of the support and help of Katalis. A panel discussion, steered by Claire Ormerod, Business Engagement Manager at IA-CEPA ECP Katalis comprised an array of Australia-Indonesia leaders, including Tissa Aunilla, Co-founder of Pipiltin Cocoa; Timothy Gilbert, Vice President International Development at Melbourne Polytechnic; Clarice Campbell, Skills Lead Adviser at IA-CEPA ECP Katalis; and David Goodwins, Deputy Director at IA-CEPA ECP Katalis.
Katalis is recognised as a milestone by Indonesian National Development Planning Minister HE Suharso Monoarfa, who has expressed optimism about its potential to enrich both economies in the long term. “The beauty of this agreement is a commitment to establish the economic cooperation program (ECP) to ensure maximum utilisation and bring mutual benefit of IA-CEPA for both parties. The IA-CEPA ECP will be branded just simply as Katalis.” Katalis positions itself as a bridge between policy and practice, ensuring that the benefits of IA-CEPA are fully realised across diverse sectors.
In 2022, Asialink Business commenced a significant long-term study of businesses involved in trade and investment between Australia and Indonesia in partnership with Katalis. This baseline study brought together a wide array of businesses to assess the benefits of IA-CEPA on trade and investment.
The success of this initial study has led to its extension until 2025, with an increased focus on priority sectors such as agrifood, advanced manufacturing and services; including health, education, energy, finance, infrastructure, mining, transport, tourism and communications. The extended research is tracking vital metrics such as business challenges, success factors, and aspirations, aiming to offer tailored recommendations to enhance bilateral business relations.
The comprehensive nature of Katalis extends to fostering deeper business relationships and facilitating a seamless flow of trade. Asialink Business is set to produce two annual reports for Katalis up to 2025, documenting the progress and impact of the participating businesses in the evolving market landscape. This work underscores Katalis’ role in fostering a more inclusive and dynamic business environment between Australia and Indonesia.
If you are thinking about catalysing your trade and investment with Indonesia, then find out your next steps by having a confidential discussion with our team. Contact us here.