By Zahid Karani
KARACHI: Indonesia and Pakistan have reaffirmed their commitment to building a more sustainable and investment-driven economic partnership, with leaders from both countries calling for stronger trade links, greater private-sector collaboration and progress towards a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
The commitment was reiterated at the Indonesia–Pakistan Investment and Business Forum in Karachi, organised by the Indonesian Embassy in Islamabad and the Indonesian Consulate General in Karachi, with support from the Indonesia Investment Promotion Centre (IIPC) Abu Dhabi.
The forum brought together government officials, investment authorities, business leaders, investors, chambers of commerce and academics to explore new opportunities for bilateral cooperation.
Speaking at the opening session, Indonesian Consul General Mudzakir described the forum as part of Indonesia’s ongoing efforts to strengthen commercial ties and turn business interest into practical partnerships. He highlighted Karachi’s role as Pakistan’s commercial and financial hub and pledged continued support for businesses seeking reliable partners and market access.
Representing Pakistan’s business community, FPCCI Acting President Saquib Fayyaz Magoon said the two countries’ complementary economies and a combined market of more than 520 million people offered significant opportunities. He urged both sides to diversify trade, strengthen business-to-business engagement, improve logistics and continue negotiations towards a future CEPA.
Indonesian Ambassador Lt Gen (Ret.) Chandra W. Sukotjo said the longstanding friendship between the two nations should now deliver stronger economic outcomes. He described Indonesia as both a major consumer market and a manufacturing and investment hub, adding that a future CEPA should provide a comprehensive framework covering trade, investment, services, customs procedures, standards and supply-chain connectivity.
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah highlighted investment opportunities across manufacturing, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, healthcare, infrastructure, logistics, digital technology and data centres. He encouraged Indonesian companies to explore partnerships in Sindh and welcomed closer cooperation between governments and the private sector.
The opening ceremony included the “Resonance of Partnership” gong ceremony, symbolising both countries’ commitment to expanding practical economic cooperation.
During the business dialogue, Indonesian officials presented investment opportunities in manufacturing, healthcare, renewable energy, food security, downstream industries and the digital economy. They also stressed the importance of diversifying trade, improving market access and advancing discussions on a future CEPA.
Representatives from Indonesia’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry identified food and agribusiness, halal industries, pharmaceuticals, livestock and the digital economy as key sectors for future collaboration, while calling for stronger business partnerships, regulatory cooperation, support for small and medium-sized enterprises and improved logistics.
The forum concluded with business networking sessions aimed at converting discussions into concrete partnerships. Organisers said Indonesian and Pakistani institutions would continue working together to expand two-way trade, attract investment and promote long-term, sustainable economic growth.
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