The discussion to strengthen cooperation was held between Indonesia’s Minister of Industry, Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita, and Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Bandar Al-Khorayef, in Jakarta on Wednesday, April 16. Minister Agus emphasized the importance of addressing global uncertainty, particularly the potential policies of the U.S. under President Trump, and how strengthening bilateral cooperation is a key strategy to mitigate these challenges. He also pointed out that the trade volume between the two countries remains low, at just USD 3.3 billion (IDR 55.57 trillion) last year, highlighting significant opportunities for Indonesia and Saudi Arabia to enhance collaboration, particularly in petrochemicals and mineral development.

Minister Agus elaborated that Indonesia needs to focus on petrochemical downstream development to support its related industries, while Saudi Arabia could partner with Indonesia to develop mineral downstreaming. Saudi Arabia is also interested in investing in Indonesia’s mineral sector to secure market strength in its portfolio. Both nations are set to formalize these discussions in a memorandum of understanding (MoU), which will focus on projects that align with common interests and deliver quick wins. Additionally, the two countries discussed opportunities for boosting investments and collaborating on sustainable projects, including renewable energy. In the changing global geopolitical and economic landscape, the synergy between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia is seen as crucial for regional stability and fostering inclusive, sustainable economic growth.

Source:
https://koran-jakarta.com/2025-04-17/indonesia-arab-saudi-bahas-penguatan-kerja-sama-industri