"We wish for the best but if the case is taken to the dispute settlement body or even to the arbitration court, we must be ready," Trade Minister Muhammad Lutfi said.Jakarta (ANTARA News) - Indonesia is ready in the event that Japan decides to file a complaint at the World Trade Organization, with regard to the implementation of the countrys law on minerals and coal mining.
"We wish for the best but if the case is taken to the dispute settlement body or even to the arbitration court, we must be ready," Trade Minister Muhammad Lutfi stated here on Wednesday.
He added that there has been no sign of Japan reporting Indonesia to the WTO so far with regard to the implementation of Law Number 4, 2009 that bans exports of raw minerals.
"Although Japan has taken no step so far, there have been signs," he reiterated.
Lutfi pointed out that Indonesia will respect it, if Japan finally takes the case to the WTO but, Indonesia will also answer such that those hurt can understand the reason behind the countrys decision.
"This is not bad but part of an international rule that must be respected by both Indonesia and Japan," he clarified.
He explained that he has already coordinated with the concerned parties for preparations in case Japan finally takes the case to the WTO.
As reported by the Nikkei Business Daily last month, Japan is preparing to report Indonesia to the WTO with regard to its decision on banning exports of raw minerals, which limit the supply to Japans industries.
Japan is home to the worlds biggest stainless steel producers and the ban would make that country struggle to meet its nickel needs from other countries.
Japan has so far been the biggest importer of nickel ore from Indonesia, which supplied more than 44 percent of Japans total nickel ore imports in 2012.(*)
Editor: Heru Purwanto
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