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British Columbia and Indonesia

Indonesia is Southeast Asia’ largest Economy and the world’s fourth largest population. As a G20 member with a strong democracy and social stability, a growing middle class and a rising average disposable income, Indonesia provides many opportunities for B.C. businesses to develop partnerships and sustain operations. Indonesia is strategically located and easily accessible between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean with an abundance of natural resources. With one of the highest mobile subscriber bases in Asia, Indonesia is one of the fastest developing telecommunications markets globally.

Trade & Investment Highlights

In 2022, Indonesia was the 11th largest market for B.C. receiving 0.6% of B.C.’s commodity exports.
Through Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, Canada will seek to negotiate and implement a Canada-ASEAN free trade agreement and a Comprehensive Economic Partnership with Indonesia.

Indonesia at a Glance

Monetary figures are in USD

Opportunity for Foreign Investors and B.C. Exporters

Aerospace

Indonesia’s aviation sector is the largest in Southeast Asia, driven by its status as the world’s largest archipelago with critical reliance on air transport. This rapid expansion presents substantial opportunities for British Columbia (B.C.) companies, particularly in addressing infrastructure and workforce challenges. A shortage of skilled domestic workers has created demand for aviation-related training, including maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) programs—areas where B.C. expertise can be leveraged. Furthermore, B.C. MRO companies can collaborate with Indonesian firms to strengthen the sector’s capabilities. The Indonesian government’s prioritization of airport development, encompassing runways, ground infrastructure, and air traffic systems, opens doors for B.C. businesses specializing in airport infrastructure and related technologies.

Agrifood & Agritech

Indonesia’s agrifood sector, a cornerstone of its economy, faces growing demand for high-quality imports as domestic supply is challenged to keep pace. Rising incomes, urbanization, and changing consumer preferences have increased interest in fresh produce such as apples, pears, cherries, and blueberries—products B.C. excels in producing. Opportunities also abound for pre-packaged and ready-to-eat foods, frozen meals, seafood, and non-perishables like snacks, sauces, and cereals. B.C. companies can tap into Indonesia’s evolving food market, driven by an expanding middle class and a shift toward convenience-oriented lifestyles.

Cleantech

As one of the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitters, Indonesia is committed to cutting emissions by 29% by 2030 and achieving net-zero by 2060. This transition requires renewable energy technologies, offering significant opportunities for B.C. companies specializing in off-grid solutions, rooftop solar PV, geothermal energy, and biomass-to-energy systems. Indonesia’s coal power phase-out program further highlights the need for cleantech innovations. B.C. firms can support Indonesia’s shift toward sustainable energy through tailored solutions and partnerships that align with the country’s ambitious goals.

Clean Energy

Indonesia, the largest energy producer and consumer in ASEAN, is progressing toward renewable energy despite its heavy reliance on fossil fuels, which account for 80% of electricity generation. Opportunities for B.C. companies lie in alternative energy solutions, including biofuels, hydropower, and solar power, particularly in off-grid applications for remote islands. Public-private partnerships between B.C. and Indonesian firms can drive renewable energy projects, while B.C.’s leadership in hydrogen and fuel cell technologies positions it as a key player in Indonesia’s decarbonization efforts. Local partnerships and extended project timelines should be considered when entering this market.

ICT

Indonesia, home to Asia’s third-largest mobile subscriber base, is undergoing a digital transformation guided by its Digital Vision 2045 strategy. This initiative emphasizes equitable digital infrastructure, government services, and economic development, creating opportunities for B.C. companies in fintech, e-commerce, SaaS, cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, and IoT. With rising demand for imported computer and software services, B.C.’s ICT firms are well-positioned to provide solutions that support Indonesia’s ambitious digital goals and expanding technology ecosystem.

Life Sciences

Indonesia’s life sciences and pharmaceutical sector, the largest in ASEAN, is growing rapidly due to increasing incomes, a burgeoning population, and government investment in healthcare. The country relies heavily on imported medical equipment and pharmaceuticals to meet its needs, despite import duties of 5%-30%. B.C. companies specializing in high-tech medical devices, supplies, and pharmaceuticals can seize opportunities in this expanding market. Indonesia’s healthcare transformation and young, working-age population further enhance its attractiveness as a destination for B.C. life sciences exports.

Indonesia Top Industries (2019-2023)

Industries for Outward Investment

Investment Opportunities in Canada: Coal, Oil & Gas

Investment Opportunities in Canada: Food & Beverages

Investment Opportunities in Canada: Communications

_{Source: FDI Markets}

Import Industries
(by value)

Investment Opportunities in Canada - Machinery and Mechanical Appliances

Investment Opportunities in Canada - Electrical Machinery Equipment

Investment Opportunities in Canada: Mineral Fuels & Oils

_{Source: International Trade Centre}

Fastest Growing Import Opportunities

Investment Opportunities in Canada: Pharmaceuticals

Investment Opportunities in Canada: Pearls, Precious Stones & Metals

Investment Opportunities in Canada: Specialized Instruments

_{Source: International Trade Centre}

BC Export Industries to Market

Investment Opportunities in Canada: Wood Pulp & Recovered Paper

Investment Opportunities in Canada: Machinery

Investment Opportunities in Canada: Wood Products

_{Source: BC Stats, data sourced from Statistics Canada}

Trade & Investment Resources

For B.C. Businesses

For International Businesses

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How We Help

Assist in commercial location identification and site selection.
Provide information on transportation infrastructure and logistics gateways.
Offer introductions to sector associations, industries and provide cluster insight.
Facilitate understanding and solutions for talent, skilled workforce and labour mobility
Facilitate engagement with professional advisors on legal, compliance and tax matters
Help navigating and offering referrals within government agencies on First Nations, business and regulatory processes.

Identify high potential investment opportunities and offer industry insight.
Introductions to sector associations and local industry contacts.
Introductions to companies seeking investments to expand.
Provide knowledge on local innovation hubs and connections to entrepreneurial opportunities.
Introductions to local venture capital networks.

Assist in navigating government export programs and financial supports.
Advice and coaching in international expansion and exporter development.
Support Team BC missions and trade events.
Match buyers and sellers in local and foreign markets.
Provide insight on trade agreements and barriers.
Introductions to trade representatives in foreign markets.
Market entry assistance in international markets.

Trade & Investment Office

Indonesia
- Jakarta

Jakarta

British Columbia’s trade and investment network provides direct access for B.C. companies interested in the Indonesian market as well as other countries in the ASEAN economic region. Our experienced trade and investment professionals can help you network and explore business opportunities in the region.

Jakarta Office:
Embassy of Canada
World Trade Centre I, 6^th Floor
Jalan Jend. Sudirman Kav. 29-31
Jakarta 12920, Indonesia

Contact our Trade and Investment Representatives. Our team welcomes your inquiries

Rohan Belliappa
Managing Director, ASEAN

Debora Gracia
Commercial Officer

Connect With Our International Network

Our Trade and Investment Representatives can help you establish the right connections, participate in events and tradeshows, explore programs and initiatives, and more. Connect with an expert near you.

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