Indonesia and China are advancing their economic collaboration with bilateral trade reaching a substantial $154 billion, reflecting a significant increase from around $8 billion. This growth, highlighted by former Indonesian Ambassador to China Sudrajat during a forum in Jakarta, underscores the deepening ties in areas such as investment, technology, and sustainable development. By 2010, bilateral trade had already grown to $20 billion, and China now stands as Indonesia’s largest trading partner.
Sudrajat emphasized the need for stronger people-to-people connections and practical community-focused cooperation alongside economic ties. He pointed out disaster management as a key area for collaboration, given Indonesia’s susceptibility to natural disasters like floods, forest fires, and earthquakes. China’s expertise in disaster prevention and emergency response could prove beneficial in enhancing Indonesia’s preparedness and response capabilities.
Beyond trade and investment, Indonesia and China are also extending their cooperation into the digital economy, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and green development. Guan Kejiang, a Chinese media executive, discussed aligning China’s development goals with Indonesia’s Golden Indonesia 2045 Vision, aiming to transform Indonesia into a developed economy by its centenary.
Guan also stressed the importance of regional stability and international cooperation amidst geopolitical tensions and rising protectionism, referencing the 1955 Bandung Conference as a symbol of solidarity among developing nations.
Chinese diplomat Zhou Kan highlighted both countries as influential developing economies and key members of the Global South, actively participating in international forums like BRICS, the G20, and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum. He noted the development of bilateral relations through increased political trust, economic integration, and cultural exchanges.
Indonesian investment adviser Noor Sona Maesana Mushonnif noted the strategic partnership’s contributions to Indonesia’s mining, electric vehicle, and manufacturing sectors. Additionally, he advocated for expanded cooperation in renewable energy, agriculture, maritime industries, and high-value-added manufacturing. These discussions reflect a mutual interest in broadening the partnership beyond traditional trade, with an emphasis on technology, sustainable growth, and regional cooperation.