The latest Indonesia Tunisia trade talks have taken a significant step forward as both nations work to strengthen bilateral cooperation in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products. During a meeting in Jakarta on 19 November 2025, Indonesia’s National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM) and the Tunisian Embassy outlined concrete plans to harmonize regulations, improve certification processes, and expand market access between the two countries.
BPOM Chief Taruna Ikrar met with Tunisian Ambassador Mohamed Trabelsi to discuss accelerating the flow of high-quality, safe products between the two nations. At the center of the dialogue was the need for Tunisian exporters to meet Indonesia’s stringent safety, manufacturing, and quality standards—an essential prerequisite for entering one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic consumer markets.
BPOM to Send Assessment Team to Tunisia
To support these efforts, BPOM confirmed that it will deploy a technical assessment team to Tunisia. The team will evaluate the country’s food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical production facilities and determine whether they meet Indonesian requirements for Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), hygiene systems, and product safety.
If approved, BPOM will issue the relevant certifications, which are expected to significantly streamline the entry of Tunisian products into Indonesia. This includes cosmetics, dietary supplements, traditional herbal products, and processed food items.
According to Taruna Ikrar, “Certification and harmonized regulations are crucial for enabling safe, efficient trade. This collaboration ensures Indonesian consumers receive high-standard products while supporting Tunisia’s export potential.”
Tunisia Aims to Expand Food Exports, Including Dates and Olive Oil
The Tunisian delegation emphasized its desire to increase exports of signature agricultural goods—especially dates, olive oil, and processed food products—which remain central to Tunisia’s global trade profile.
Ambassador Trabelsi noted that Tunisia’s high-quality dates and premium-grade olive oil have strong potential in Indonesia’s growing consumer market. With import demand rising, particularly for healthier food options, improved certification pathways could unlock substantial opportunities for Tunisian businesses.
Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Industries Highlighted
Beyond food items, Tunisia expressed interest in deepening cooperation in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Both countries discussed the importance of aligning:
- Product labeling
- Ingredient verification
- Halal certification
- Manufacturing standards
- Laboratory testing frameworks
Indonesia, home to the world’s largest Muslim population, places strong emphasis on halal compliance across cosmetics, supplements, and processed food products. Tunisian exporters welcomed collaboration to ensure their goods can meet these requirements.
Preferential Trade Agreement Near Completion
One of the most anticipated developments discussed during the Indonesia Tunisia trade talks is the nearing finalization of a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) between the two countries. The PTA aims to reduce tariffs, simplify customs processes, and remove trade barriers.
Once finalized, the agreement is expected to:
- Increase bilateral trade volume
- Support MSMEs from both countries
- Strengthen economic resilience
- Expand export diversification
The PTA is seen as a milestone that could elevate Indonesia–Tunisia relations to a new level of strategic economic cooperation.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties Through Regulatory Cooperation
Both sides recognized that regulatory cooperation is not merely a technical matter but a foundation for long-term economic trust. By establishing shared standards and clear certification pathways, Indonesia and Tunisia aim to create a predictable, transparent environment for trade and investment.
The discussions reflect a broader commitment by both governments to enhance South–South economic collaboration, diversify markets, and boost sustainable development.
A Promising Future for Bilateral Trade
The ongoing Indonesia Tunisia trade talks signal strong momentum toward more robust economic ties. With BPOM’s forthcoming inspection mission, Tunisia’s strengthened commitment to product quality, and the imminent Preferential Trade Agreement, both countries stand to benefit from smoother market access, higher trade volumes, and new business partnerships.
As Indonesia continues to expand its global trade network and Tunisia positions itself as a reliable exporter of high-quality products, cooperation in food safety, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics is poised to become a key pillar of their bilateral relationship.