Canada has secured expanded market access for pork products in Indonesia, marking a breakthrough for Canadian producers in one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing markets.
This milestone follows the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in September 2025 and a ministerial mission led by Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Heath MacDonald earlier that year.
Pork producers gain historic entry
For the first time, Canadian exporters can ship pork and pork products to Indonesia. This new access opens doors in a market valued at USD 42 million in 2024. Nine Canadian plants have been approved to export, reflecting recognition of Canada’s rigorous food safety standards and outstanding on-farm programs.
René Roy, Chair of the Canadian Pork Council, emphasized the importance of reaching a market of nearly 300 million people. He noted that diversifying pork export markets is crucial as Canada continues to deliver high-quality pork to more consumers globally.
Beef access expands alongside pork
While pork access is the headline achievement, beef exports also benefit. Canada can now ship over-thirty-month bone-in beef and beef offal, in addition to boneless beef.
Indonesia’s USD 1.1 billion beef import market offers significant opportunities, further strengthened by the removal of residency restrictions on imported cattle.
CEPA unlocks competitive advantage
The CEPA eliminates nearly all tariffs on Canadian pork and beef. It also creates mechanisms to address non-tariff barriers and foster stronger regulatory cooperation. These provisions make Canadian exports more competitive and support long-term growth in the Indo-Pacific region.
Mr MacDonald highlighted that the agreement reinforces Canada’s reputation as a trusted trading partner. Industry leaders echoed this, praising collaboration between government and producers in overcoming regulatory hurdles.
Building momentum for future trade
Canada continues to negotiate export certificates for live swine, breeding cattle, genetic material, and bovine embryos. These efforts align with the government’s 2025 federal budget objectives to grow agri-food exports and double non-U.S. exports over the next decade.
With pork now entering Indonesia’s market, Canadian farmers, processors, and exporters gain new opportunities. Indonesian consumers, in turn, benefit from safe, nutritious, and high-quality Canadian meat products.