On 25 January 2025, the Forum Chief Executive Officers (CEO) of India-Indonesia convened in New Delhi, India, for a significant meeting led by Co-Chairs Ajay Shriram of India and Anindya Novyan Bakrie of Indonesia. The meeting resulted in the release of a joint statement outlining five key sectors of business priority: healthcare, food and agriculture, manufacturing, energy, and technology.

The statement highlighted crucial elements impacting investment environments in both countries, with Indonesia focusing on improving business ease, reducing regulatory barriers, and ensuring quicker approval processes for imports and product registrations. Key recommendations also included the gradual implementation of local procurement policies to balance quality, cost, and feasibility.

On the Indian side, the forum acknowledged India’s progress in enhancing its business environment but noted challenges such as regulatory complexity and lengthy approval processes that continue to impact operational efficiency. The Forum emphasised the need for streamlined processes, digitalisation, and better coordination among departments to attract more foreign investments.

Both leaders also discussed the significant sectoral opportunities for collaboration. The sectors identified—healthcare, food and agriculture, manufacturing, energy, and technology—are seen as areas where both nations could drive mutual growth, enhance innovation, and strengthen bilateral ties.

With these initiatives, the India-Indonesia Forum aims to lay a solid foundation for expanding bilateral trade and investment, with both countries focusing on strengthening their economic and technological partnerships in the coming years.

Source: Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry