Trade Minister states nuclear sector included in initial STM framework discussions
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Minister of Trade, Budi Santoso, stated in Jakarta on Wednesday that the nuclear sector is one of the priorities in the Indonesian Government’s discussions within the framework of Strategic Trade Management (STM).
STM is a global trade governance initiative designed to ensure that strategic goods and technologies with potential dual-use capabilities—both commercial and military—are not utilised to support activities that could undermine national or international security.
Budi noted that the implementation of STM is in line with Indonesia’s commitment under the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade with the United States.
“Under the coordination of the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, discussions (on STM) have commenced in the nuclear sector, with Bapeten, the Nuclear Energy Regulatory Agency, leading the initial discussions regarding goods related to the use of nuclear energy,” he said during the 5th Annual Southeast Asia Forum on Export Controls (SEAFEC).
The Ministry of Trade has established three main priorities to support the implementation of this strategic trade framework.
Budi explained that his ministry will establish clear boundaries of authority between agencies, develop simple and transparent business processes to avoid burdening the business community, and integrate the new framework with existing systems.
He expressed optimism that STM can ensure the domestic flow of goods and technology is well-controlled, thereby strengthening Indonesia’s position as a safe and responsible trading partner. At a global level, the system is believed to be able to increase the confidence of international partners and pave the way for businesses, including MSMEs, to compete in the global market.
The government has ensured that the adoption of STM will be carried out with a rapid yet gradual approach to provide sufficient time and space for businesses and relevant institutions to adapt.
Budi stated that amidst the rapid development of dual-use technologies, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and the utilisation of critical minerals, Indonesia is required to balance market access with trade security.
As a responsible member of the international community, Indonesia is committed to continuously strengthening multilateral cooperation to maintain the principles of non-proliferation of nuclear weapons and weapons of mass destruction. Indonesia is also committed to implementing United Nations Security Council Resolution 1540 to prevent non-state actors from acquiring such weapons.