Indonesia and China are significantly expanding their economic cooperation as bilateral trade between the two nations has reached $154 billion. Former Indonesian Ambassador to China, Sudrajat, highlighted this growth during a forum in Jakarta, noting that trade has surged from $20 billion in 2010 to its current level. This makes China Indonesia’s largest trading partner, reflecting a broader trend of increased trade with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Sudrajat emphasized that alongside stronger economic ties, there should be a focus on fostering people-to-people relationships and practical cooperation that benefits local communities. He pointed out disaster management as a key area for collaboration, given Indonesia’s vulnerability to natural disasters such as floods, forest fires, earthquakes, and landslides. China’s experience in disaster prevention and emergency response could enhance Indonesia’s capabilities in these areas.
The cooperation between Indonesia and China is evolving beyond traditional trade and investment, extending into sectors like the digital economy, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and green development. Guan Kejiang, a Chinese media executive, pointed out opportunities to align China’s development priorities with Indonesia’s Golden Indonesia 2045 Vision, which aims to transform Indonesia into a developed economy by the centenary of its independence.
Moreover, Guan stressed the need for maintaining regional stability and strengthening international cooperation amidst geopolitical tensions and rising protectionism. He noted the relevance of solidarity among developing countries, referencing the 1955 Bandung Conference as a historical example of such cooperation.
Chinese diplomat Zhou Kan described Indonesia and China as influential developing economies with key roles in international forums like BRICS, the G20, and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum. He noted that bilateral relations have strengthened through increased political trust, economic integration, and cultural exchanges.
Indonesian investment adviser Noor Sona Maesana Mushonnif highlighted the significant contributions of the comprehensive strategic partnership in sectors like mining, electric vehicles, and manufacturing. He called for further collaboration in renewable energy, agriculture, maritime industries, and high-value-added manufacturing, underscoring the shared interest of both nations in pursuing sustainable growth and industrial development.