Anindya Bakrie: Regional Entrepreneurs Vital for Equitable Economic Growth
JAKARTA, Investortrust.id – Anindya Bakrie, Chairman of Indonesia’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin), highlighted the importance of involving regional entrepreneurs in supporting government programs to achieve equitable economic growth. During President Prabowo Subianto's state visit to India, Kadin representatives included not only central board members but also leaders from regional branches.
“This visit wasn’t just for the central Kadin representatives. Regional colleagues were also here, not for sightseeing, but to collaborate. They visited dairy plants, motorcycle factories, food estates, hospitals, and more,” Anindya said on Monday, Jan 27, 2025, following President Prabowo’s official engagements in New Delhi.
Anindya noted that India’s economic growth strategy emphasizes regional development, aligning closely with Indonesia’s goals. “India has 28 states, while Indonesia has 38 provinces. Economic growth in India isn’t limited to hubs like New Delhi or Mumbai—it’s widespread. Indonesia can learn from this approach to drive regional development and address inequality,” he said.
Trade Growth Target of $120 Billion with a Surplus for Indonesia
Kadin Indonesia aims to significantly increase trade between Indonesia and India from $24 billion currently to $120 billion within the next decade, ensuring that Indonesia maintains a trade surplus.
“Currently, our trade with India stands at approximately $24.1 billion from January to November 2024, with Indonesia exporting $18.9 billion and importing $5.2 billion, resulting in a surplus of $13.7 billion. Maintaining this surplus strengthens our economic fundamentals, supports foreign exchange reserves, and stabilizes the rupiah,” Anindya explained.
To achieve this goal, Indonesian businesses and the government must address both tariff and non-tariff barriers, such as quotas and licensing. “We all have homework to do to ensure competitiveness and regulatory alignment,” he said.
Investment Collaboration with Indian Companies
In addition to trade, Kadin will work closely with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Indian companies to encourage investment in Indonesia.
“Kadin will continue collaborating with CII and Indian businesses, not just in trade but also in investment, with the goal of attracting their investments to Indonesia,” Anindya stated.
The third India-Indonesia CEO Forum, led by Anindya Bakrie and CII Chairman Ajay S. Shriram, gathered 50 CEOs—25 from each country—representing six key sectors: healthcare, food and agriculture, manufacturing, energy, technology, and affordable housing.
The forum concluded with a joint statement emphasizing the need for stronger business cooperation between the two nations. Forum outcomes were presented to President Prabowo Subianto and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, further solidifying bilateral relations.
Productive Collaborations and Long-Term Vision
Anindya announced plans to establish a Project Management Office (PMO) to follow up on the forum’s results and ensure sustained cooperation.
“The visit of Kadin Indonesia accompanying President Prabowo was a success from both government and business perspectives. The close relationship between President Prabowo and Prime Minister Modi will continue to foster a healthy environment for trade and investment,” he said.
He emphasized that the collaboration among CEOs from both nations has already yielded promising results, with agreements to focus on six key sectors for mutual growth. “This partnership ensures a productive collaboration and positions Indonesia and India for sustainable economic advancement,” Anindya concluded.