Indonesia and China are strengthening their economic cooperation as bilateral trade between the two nations has surged to $154 billion. This significant growth is a result of increasing collaboration in areas such as investment, technology, and sustainable development. According to former Indonesian Ambassador to China Sudrajat, the trade volume, which stood at about $8 billion in earlier years, reached $20 billion by 2010 before escalating to its current level. China has emerged as Indonesia’s largest trading partner, and trade with the broader Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has also seen substantial expansion.
Sudrajat emphasized the importance of complementing economic ties with stronger people-to-people relations and practical cooperation that directly benefits local communities. He pointed out disaster management as a promising area for collaboration, highlighting Indonesia’s vulnerability to natural disasters like floods, forest fires, and earthquakes. China’s expertise in disaster prevention and emergency response could enhance Indonesia’s preparedness and response capabilities.
The scope of Indonesia-China cooperation is broadening beyond traditional trade and investment, extending into areas such as the digital economy, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and green development. Guan Kejiang, a media executive from China, noted the alignment of China’s development goals with Indonesia’s Golden Indonesia 2045 Vision, which aims to transform Indonesia into a developed economy by its centenary of independence.
Furthermore, maintaining regional stability and enhancing international cooperation is deemed crucial amid geopolitical tensions and rising protectionism. Guan referenced the 1955 Bandung Conference as a historical example of solidarity and cooperation among developing countries, underscoring its continuing relevance today.
Chinese diplomat Zhou Kan described Indonesia and China as influential developing economies and key members of the Global South, actively participating in international forums such as BRICS, the G20, and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum. He noted the development of bilateral relations through stronger political trust, deeper economic integration, and expanding cultural exchanges.
Indonesian investment adviser Noor Sona Maesana Mushonnif highlighted the positive impact of the comprehensive strategic partnership on sectors like mining, electric vehicles, and manufacturing in Indonesia. He advocated for further cooperation in renewable energy, agriculture, maritime industries, and high-value-added manufacturing.
The discussions underscore both countries’ ambitions to broaden their partnership beyond conventional trade, with an increased focus on technology, sustainable growth, industrial development, and regional cooperation.