Jakarta (ANTARA) – Indonesia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) aim to complete substantive negotiations on a free trade agreement in 2026, officials said, as both sides intensified talks during the fourth negotiation round in Riyadh.The fourth round of Indonesia-GCC FTA negotiations was held from Jan. 18 to 23 in Saudi Arabia, marking a critical phase toward concluding the agreement, according to Indonesia’s Ministry of Trade.“We are optimistic that constructive discussions and mutually beneficial solutions can be accelerated so that substantive completion in 2026 can be achieved,” said Djatmiko Bris Wijtaksono, director general for international trade negotiations.He said the agreement is expected to strengthen the long-term economic partnership between Indonesia and GCC member states, reflecting a shared commitment to maintaining momentum and deepening negotiations.The latest round focused on key issues, including trade in goods and services, investment, and rules of origin, while also discussing enhanced cooperation in the Islamic economy and halal sectors.Indonesia’s chief negotiator Danang Prasta Danial, who also serves as director for bilateral negotiations, said the talks have become more technical and focused as both sides consolidated progress made in previous rounds.“At this stage, Indonesia and the GCC are working to narrow remaining differences through constructive dialogue while maintaining a balance of interests,” Danang said.He added that both sides aim to conclude the negotiations soon to expand market access for Indonesian goods and services across Gulf countries.The GCC consists of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, and Qatar. Negotiations for the Indonesia-GCC FTA were officially launched on July 31, 2024.Indonesia expects the agreement to boost export competitiveness, with projected export growth of up to 17.4 percent, particularly in electronics, leather, metal products, manufacturing, and textiles.The deal is also expected to expand exports of air transport and business services to markets in the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.Indonesia-GCC trade reached US$15.45 billion in January to November 2025, with Indonesian exports totaling US$7.59 billion and imports US$7.86 billion, compared with total trade of US$15.58 billion in 2024.