Indonesia and China are enhancing their economic partnership, with bilateral trade reaching $154 billion, a significant increase from approximately $8 billion. This growth reflects expanding cooperation in sectors such as investment, technology, and sustainable development. Former Indonesian Ambassador to China, Sudrajat, noted this rapid trade expansion during a forum in Jakarta, highlighting China’s position as Indonesia’s largest trading partner and the growing trade between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Sudrajat emphasized the need for stronger economic ties to be complemented by closer people-to-people relations and practical cooperation that benefits local communities. He pointed out disaster management as a potential area for collaboration, citing Indonesia’s vulnerability to natural disasters like floods and earthquakes. China’s expertise in disaster prevention and emergency response could play a crucial role in enhancing Indonesia’s capabilities in these areas.
The cooperation between Indonesia and China is also extending into the digital economy, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and green development. Chinese media executive Guan Kejiang highlighted the potential to align China’s development priorities with Indonesia’s Golden Indonesia 2045 Vision, which aims to see the country become a developed economy by the centenary of its independence. He also stressed the importance of maintaining regional stability and strengthening international cooperation amid geopolitical tensions and rising protectionism.
Chinese diplomat Zhou Kan described both nations as influential developing economies and members of the Global South, participating in international forums such as BRICS, the G20, and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC). Zhou remarked that bilateral relations have developed through increased political trust, deeper economic integration, and expanding cultural and people-to-people exchanges.
Indonesian investment adviser Noor Sona Maesana Mushonnif noted the significant contributions of the comprehensive strategic partnership to Indonesia’s mining, electric vehicle, and manufacturing industries. He advocated for further cooperation in renewable energy, agriculture, maritime industries, and high-value-added manufacturing. The discussions underscored a mutual interest in broadening the partnership beyond traditional trade, with a focus on technology, sustainable growth, industrial development, and regional collaboration.