The Indonesia Saudi Arabia trade forum has emerged as a key platform for strengthening economic and cultural relations between the two nations, as Indonesia highlighted its growing trade footprint and rich cultural heritage during a major event in Riyadh. The two-day Trade and Cultural Promotion 2025 forum underscores the deepening partnership between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia, with bilateral trade reaching $6.6 billion in 2024.
Indonesia Saudi Arabia Trade Forum Showcases Strong Economic Growth
Opening the Indonesia Saudi Arabia trade forum, Indonesian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Dr. Abdul Aziz Ahmad emphasized the steady expansion of bilateral trade, which has grown at an average rate of 12% annually over the past five years. According to official figures, Indonesia exported $2.6 billion worth of goods to Saudi Arabia in 2024, while imports from the Kingdom exceeded $4 billion, reflecting a robust and mutually beneficial trade relationship.
The forum serves as a strategic platform to further diversify trade flows, enhance private-sector cooperation, and introduce Indonesian products to Saudi consumers and investors.
Wide Range of Indonesian Products on Display
A central feature of the Indonesia Saudi Arabia trade forum is the participation of Indonesian companies representing a broad spectrum of industries. Businesses showcased products and services across key sectors, including:
- Food and beverages, highlighting Indonesia’s agricultural and halal food capabilities
- Construction materials and industrial goods, aligned with Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure expansion
- Fashion and textiles, showcasing modern and traditional Indonesian designs
- Personal care and lifestyle products, reflecting Indonesia’s growing manufacturing base
The exhibition aims to strengthen Indonesia’s market presence in Saudi Arabia while encouraging partnerships with Saudi distributors, retailers, and investors.
Cultural Exchange at the Heart of the Forum
Beyond trade, the Indonesia Saudi Arabia trade forum places strong emphasis on cultural diplomacy. Visitors experienced a rich program of Indonesian cultural showcases, including:
- Traditional and contemporary fashion presentations
- Live music and dance performances from different Indonesian regions
- Authentic Indonesian cuisine, offering Saudi audiences a taste of the country’s culinary diversity
These cultural elements reinforce people-to-people connections and help build long-term trust and familiarity between the two nations.
Strategic Importance for Saudi Arabia
For Saudi Arabia, the Indonesia Saudi Arabia trade forum aligns with Vision 2030, which prioritizes economic diversification, international trade expansion, and cultural engagement. Indonesia, as Southeast Asia’s largest economy and one of the world’s most populous Muslim-majority countries, represents a strategic partner for the Kingdom in trade, tourism, and investment.
Saudi businesses attending the forum explored opportunities to source Indonesian products, establish joint ventures, and expand operations in Southeast Asian markets.
Public Engagement and Business Networking
The forum is open to the public, allowing entrepreneurs, investors, and consumers to engage directly with Indonesian brands and cultural representatives. Networking sessions and business meetings are designed to facilitate concrete commercial outcomes, including distribution agreements and long-term partnerships.
Organizers noted strong interest from Saudi companies seeking high-quality, competitively priced products and culturally aligned trade partners.
Looking Ahead: Deepening Bilateral Cooperation
The success of the Indonesia Saudi Arabia trade forum highlights the growing momentum in bilateral relations. Both governments have signaled continued support for expanding trade volumes, enhancing cultural exchange, and exploring new areas of cooperation such as tourism, halal industries, and renewable energy.
As Indonesia works to expand its footprint in Middle Eastern markets and Saudi Arabia continues to open its economy under Vision 2030, forums like this play a critical role in translating diplomatic relations into tangible economic and cultural outcomes.
Source: Arab News
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