PM in trade talks with Indonesia

The emerging economic superpower of Indonesia is hosting John Key and a trade and business delegation this week.

The Prime Minister arrives in Jakarta today for a two and a half day visit, capping the trip off with a one-day visit to Singapore.

With a population of 240 million, and an emerging middle class, Indonesia represents almost half of South East Asia's GDP, and Mr Key wants to cash in on that.

New Zealand's exports to Indonesia have doubled in the past five years, and the country is seen as one of the most important .

John Key jets into Jakarta today for a two and a half day visit, accompanied by business people from the geothermal, aviation tourism, education and food sectors.

 This week will be spent meeting with top level politicians and talking about what New Zealand has to offer, from diary, to tourism, to education.

Trade minister Tim Groser says doing business in the region's biggest economy will be key to New Zealand's economic future.

"What we want to do is move beyond our traditional strengths in agriculture - not that we're not interested in agriculture, but we are also trying to create higher value jobs in more sophisticated non-agricultural areas."

John Key plays golf with the Indonesian trade minister this afternoon, before a barbecue at the Ambassador's residence.

 Trade minister Tim Groser says Indonesia is the world's third biggest democracy, but it's often overlooked.

Image: Getty Images