As New Zealand targets NZ$6 billion in two-way trade with Indonesia by 2029, Māori businesses are positioning themselves to capitalise on emerging opportunities in Southeast Asia’s largest economy . It comes off the back of a visit to one of the fastest growing economies in the region by Foreign Minister Winston Peters’ which, according to Peters has secured tangible progress in New Zealand’s relationship with Southeast Asia’s most populous nation.
“Indonesia is an indispensable partner for New Zealand,” Mr Peters says.
“Demonstrating our commitment to the relationship, this is our fourth visit to Indonesia in the past 18 months, including for President Prabowo’s inauguration.”
Back in 2013, Poutama Trust leaders highlighted the successes of selling manuka honey in Indonesia, and suggested expanding into Māori seafood, meat, dairy, and agribusiness services. Ongoing regional free trade agreements—such as AANZFTA and RCEP—have progressively eliminated tariffs on beef, dairy, mussels, honey, and other primary products. For example, under AANZFTA, New Zealand’s mussels now enter Indonesia duty-free, compared to a 5% tariff for competitors. In May 2025, the Asia New Zealand Foundation, supported by Te Taumata, led a cohort of Māori food and beverage entrepreneurs to Singapore and Thailand. The goal: to build networks, learn market dynamics, and prepare for exports into ASEAN markets . Participants—ranging from manuka and honey producers to agritech innovators—were introduced to sustainable Māori-focused businesses, industry insight, and investor engagement.
“We are pleased to have made tangible, concrete progress today across the Indonesia relationship, which will deliver benefits for the New Zealand and Indonesian people.”
Mr Peters, alongside Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono, announced in Jakarta today:
- the conclusion of a cooperation arrangement on halal products, which will facilitate halal food trade between New Zealand and Indonesia;
- the signing of an enhanced education cooperation arrangement, to facilitate student and research exchanges;
- an increase from 45 to 70 in the annual number of scholarships for Indonesian students to study in New Zealand; and
- a port visit by HMNZS Te Kaha to Jakarta later this month.
“By working more closely together, New Zealand and Indonesia are fostering mutual economic growth, deepening regional cooperation, and strengthening the connections between our people.
New Zealand’s Foreign Minister and Indonesia’s Foreign Minister launched a bilateral Plan of Action for 2025–29, with a goal of NZ$6 billion in trade. This trade push emphasises halal certification, agribusiness, tourism, education, and renewable energy cooperation. For Māori exporters, halal certification—aligned with Indonesia’s majority Muslim population—is critical, opening doors for dairy, meat, and honey products. Trade data shows consistent growth in kiwi exports to Indonesia, driven by agriculture and food services . Despite some regulatory challenges—like complex import rules—New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) is actively supporting Māori-led exporters navigating the Indonesian market.
