Dubai International Chamber Orchestrates 200 Bilateral Business Meetings Between Dubai and Indonesia
Dubai, The Gulf Observer: The Dubai International Chamber, operating under the esteemed umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has embarked on a groundbreaking trade mission to Southeast Asia, fostering economic collaboration between Dubai and Indonesia. The first leg of this week-long endeavor has witnessed the organization of 200 bilateral business meetings, catalyzing partnerships between companies from both regions.
Comprising a delegation of representatives from 17 diverse companies based in Dubai, spanning sectors such as food and beverages, construction, healthcare, information technology, environmental solutions, human resource management, and perfumes and cosmetics, the trade mission underscores Dubai’s commitment to global expansion and the cultivation of promising market opportunities.
At the forefront of this initiative is the ‘New Horizons’ program, spearheaded by the Dubai International Chamber, aimed at propelling the international growth trajectory of Dubai-based enterprises and leveraging potential markets worldwide.
Recent data from Dubai Customs underscores the robust nature of bilateral trade between Dubai and Indonesia, with non-oil trade reaching a value of AED12.9 billion in 2023, marking a commendable year-over-year growth of 7.7%. Over the past decade, trade between the two entities has surged by 53.6%, reflecting the enduring strength of their economic ties.
Against this backdrop, the trade mission commenced with a dynamic business forum in Jakarta, titled ‘Doing Business with Indonesia,’ convened with the collaborative support of the UAE Embassy in Jakarta, Indonesia’s Ministry of Investment, and the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN). The forum witnessed a record attendance of 472 officials, business luminaries, and Indonesian enterprises eager to explore synergies with Dubai-based counterparts.
Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, affirmed the commitment to bolstering trade and investment relations between Dubai and Indonesia, emphasizing Indonesia’s position as a cornerstone of economic diversity in Southeast Asia. Shaima Salem Alhebsi, Acting Chargé d’Affaires at the UAE Embassy in Jakarta, reiterated the UAE’s dedication to fostering sustainable growth and investment across key sectors, resonating with the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the two nations.
The forum featured insightful presentations, including one by Salem Al Shamsi, Vice President of Global Markets at Dubai Chambers, spotlighting Dubai’s economic landscape and its inherent advantages for Indonesian enterprises. A panel discussion delved into the nuances of doing business in Indonesia, offering valuable perspectives from seasoned industry experts.
Subsequent to the forum, a series of bilateral business meetings facilitated direct engagements between companies from Dubai and Indonesia, laying the groundwork for prospective collaborations.
The mission’s second day witnessed a continuation of bilateral meetings and site visits to Indonesian companies, further enhancing dialogue and fostering mutual understanding.
Dubai International Chamber has identified key sectors presenting export opportunities for Dubai-based companies, including aluminium, metals and precious stones, and copper and copper articles. Conversely, commodities with significant import potential from Indonesia to Dubai encompass wooden panels and sheets, palm oil, clothing, and cocoa butter.
Indonesia’s automotive industry, construction sector, and agriculture, particularly the export of tropical fruits, emerge as prime investment avenues, promising mutually beneficial partnerships and sustained economic growth.
As the trade mission progresses, Dubai reaffirms its commitment to nurturing enduring partnerships with Indonesia, forging a path towards shared prosperity and economic resilience in an ever-evolving global landscape.