Jakarta, May 9 -- Indonesia has launched a new business association in the Philippines to boost bilateral trade and investment, marking a fresh push to deepen economic ties ahead of the ASEAN Summit, Trade Minister Budi Santoso said.

He said the Indonesia-Philippines Business Association (IPBA), launched in Cebu on May 6, marks a milestone in 75 years of economic relations and reflects both countries' commitment to strengthening cooperation.

"Our hope is that IPBA will serve as a strategic gateway for businesses from both countries to boost trade, investment, and partnerships," Santoso said in a statement on Saturday.

Initiated by Indonesia's trade attache in Manila in 2024, the association is expected to expand business networks and l...