VIVAnews – The free trade agreement (FTA) implementation between ASEAN countries and China will start January 1, 2010.
However, the domestic industries have yet to prepare for a competition with the imported goods from China as the direct impact of the trade.
As a response to the issue, there will be at least seven industrial sector associations that will submit their objection in the ASEAN forum and ask for the FTA to be delayed.
Industry Minister MS Hidayat explained that the seven industrial sectors which include steel, textile, food and beverage, footwear, toys, petrochemical, and electronic sector have asked the Industry Department to renegotiate the FTA.
“I will try to renegotiate with the other unprepared associations, and I will arrange [the associations] to meet the Trade Department [officials],” said Hidayat in Jakarta on Wednesday, Nov. 25.
He added that the objection was written and delivered to other ASEAN countries for an extension or delay.
“If it is agreed, [the next step] is to inform the Chinese government,” said Hidayat.
However, Hidayat also mentioned that the domestic industries must catch up with the competitors while the government proposes the FTA ASEAN – China delay.
Nevertheless, the renegotiation most likely will be difficult considering the closing deadline.
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Translated by: Ariyantri E. Tarman
