The federal government is hopeful Indonesia will return to more stable import quotas for Australian cattle.
Trade Minister Andrew Robb is in Jakarta to build stronger economic ties between the two nations including convincing the Widodo government to move towards an annual quota for live cattle imports.
Australian live exporters were shocked when Indonesia slashed its intake of cattle by 80 per cent in the September quarter - a move which was later rectified when beef prices soared amid public anger.
They've called for a return to annual quotas.
Mr Robb said there was strong agreement during his talks with trade officials for longer-term quotas.
"I think we are going to get there on this issue," he told ABC radio on Tuesday.
"There's a view that we need far more stability."
It was important for both sides to have certainty now Indonesian demand for cattle was set to exceed supply.
Mr Robb believes shoring-up the live cattle industry could smooth the way for other Australian exporters in Indonesia and improve diplomatic ties.
He is leading a 200-strong business delegation there in a few months.
Low Australian business presence was unsatisfactory, Mr Robb said noting there was only about one company for every one million Indonesians.
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