Jakarta, Oct. 18 -- The Trade Ministry has encouraged businesses to take advantage of trade agreements under the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and its partner countries to expand export markets, improve product competitiveness, and tap into opportunities across the Asia-Pacific region.

"Utilizing ASEAN and ASEAN Plus trade agreements is a strategic step toward expanding market access for pharmaceutical, processed food, and seafood products across Asia and the Pacific," Nugraheni Prasetya Hastuti, the ministry's director for ASEAN negotiations, said in a statement on Sunday.

She said businesses could benefit from preferential tariffs, strengthen their product competitiveness, and reach potential markets in ASEAN partner ...