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Countertrade in Modern Geoeconomics: A Study of Indonesia and the Eurasian Economic Union
WORKING PAPER 21: This working paper examines the resurgence of countertrade—an exchange of goods and services without immediate monetary payment—as a strategic economic mechanism within modern geoeconomic contexts, specifically focusing on Indonesia and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). Historically prominent during periods of economic isolation or liquidity constraints, countertrade is now re-emerging amid rising geopolitical tensions and financial uncertainties, serving as a tool for economic resilience and strategic autonomy. The paper investigates Indonesia’s past experiences with countertrade, primarily in defense procurement, and evaluates scenarios for potential future engagement under a proposed Indonesia-EAEU Free Trade Agreement. Using theoretical firm-level analysis, it distinguishes how different Indonesian firm categories—super-large conglomerates, large enterprises, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)—could benefit from or face challenges in adopting countertrade. Findings suggest that, despite theoretical benefits like reduced currency risk and strategic resource access, practical implementation is complex and cost-intensive, making it most suitable for larger, resource-rich firms capable of navigating these complexities.
Enhancing Continental Trade Facilitation in Africa
A multi-week capacity building program brought together 25 trade professionals from 18 African economies to explore critical trade facilitation challenges and opportunities. Participants engaged in dynamic sessions with experts from the Institute for International Trade (University of Adelaide) and special guest speakers, including Australia’s Acting High Commissioner. Candid discussions covered institutional cooperation, ICT infrastructure, barriers to trade for SMEs, and the harmonization of standards. A panel session with the Australian Trade Commissioner for Africa offered insights on regulatory barriers and approaches to boosting cross-continental investment. The program continues to foster expertise, collaboration, and practical strategies for advancing trade facilitation across African economies.
[Read more about Enhancing Continental Trade Facilitation in Africa]
Navigating the Shifting Currents of Global Trade: SA Business Chamber's Business Talk
At the South Australian Business Chamber’s “Business Talk” on 10 February 2025, Professor Peter Draper examined the shifting terrain of international trade. He highlighted neomercantilist ambitions, volatility driven by COVID-19 and geopolitical strains, and the possibility of the United States exiting the WTO—an event that could significantly alter tariffs worldwide. In an environment shaped by lingering protectionism since the 2008 financial crisis, he urged businesses to prepare by capitalizing on emerging sectors like green transition technologies, digital transformation, and defence.
This work is licensed under Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.
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