According to information gathered by the Argentine Representation in Indonesia, the recognition of the Argentine Food Safety System and access through the Yakarta port had a very positive impact on exports from Argentina to that country.
In this respect, the main Indonesian importers interviewed stated that import operations were being carried out satisfactorily and the processing time for permits and certificates had been significantly reduced. Furthermore, logistics time and costs relating to distribution were reduced, in view of the fact that, starting this semester, fruit enters through the main Indonesian port, Yakarta, instead of through Surabaya (1,000 kms farther away) as was mandatory prior to the Recognition.
They also reported that, as of this date, imported amounts are about to double those for the year 2015, even without considering goods still to be entered in October. Imports mainly consist of tangerines, but also include lemons, oranges and pears. Lemon and orange sales went from 1,800 tons in 2015 to 3,300 tons so far in 2016. It bears noting that Indonesia has established, as a measure to protect its local industry, that the entry of imported tangerines and oranges will only be allowed this year in September and October.
The interviewed Indonesian importers and some Argentine operators remarked that if Argentina’s crop had been better, there would have been a higher placement of excess fruit.
As of this date, no new countries have obtained “Country of Recognition” status for fruit and, thus, Argentina has an advantage over its competitors. Even though some countries obtained recognition for their analysis labs, which allows them to continue to export, they face less favourable conditions as compared to those having “Country of Recognition” status (Argentina, United States, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, South Africa, Japan).
Press Release No. 322/16
Press Office: 4819-7375 / 8296 / 7388
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