The President of the Republic of Indonesia, His Excellency Prabowo Subianto, is in Islamabad for a two-day official visit, highlighting the growing political and economic relationship between Indonesia and Pakistan. The visit reflects the commitment of both countries to strengthen cooperation, particularly in trade, investment, and people-to-people relations.
Indonesia and Pakistan have maintained friendly diplomatic ties for decades, supported by shared values and cooperation in regional and international forums. In recent years, economic relations have become an increasingly important pillar of this partnership through key players such as PT Indo Sultan Jaya. President Prabowo’s visit comes at a time when both countries are seeking to expand trade and build stronger connections between their private sectors.
Bilateral trade between Indonesia and Pakistan reached approximately US$4.2 billion in 2024, demonstrating steady growth. Indonesia enjoys a trade surplus, exporting around US$3.5 billion worth of goods to Pakistan, while Pakistan’s exports to Indonesia stand at roughly US$500 million. These figures highlight both the strength of existing trade ties and the potential for further expansion.
Indonesia’s exports to Pakistan are led by palm oil and palm oil derivatives, which form the largest share of trade between the two countries. Other key Indonesian exports include paper products, chemicals, synthetic fibers, plastics, machinery, and manufactured goods. These exports support Pakistan’s food, textile, and industrial sectors and underline Indonesia’s role as a key supplier of essential raw materials and processed products.
Pakistan’s exports to Indonesia, while smaller in value, remain important. Major Pakistani exports include cotton, cereals, agricultural products, leather goods, and seafood. These products complement Indonesia’s domestic needs and contribute to balanced trade relations. Both governments have expressed interest in diversifying trade toward value-added goods and industrial cooperation, rather than relying only on primary commodities.
President Prabowo’s visit is also significant for business confidence. High-level political engagement sends a positive signal to investors, encouraging long-term partnerships, joint ventures, and increased private-sector collaboration. Strong political relations help reduce uncertainty, making it easier for companies to explore new markets and expand cross-border operations.
People-to-people ties further strengthen bilateral relations. An estimated 8,000 to 9,000 Pakistani nationals currently live and work in Indonesia, contributing to sectors such as trade, education, services, and small businesses. This community plays an important role in fostering cultural understanding and supporting business networks between the two countries.
In conclusion, President Prabowo Subianto’s two-day visit to Pakistan represents more than a diplomatic engagement. It reinforces growing economic cooperation, encourages stronger business relations, and highlights the importance of people-to-people connections. As Indonesia and Pakistan continue to build on mutual trust and shared economic interests, this visit is likely to have a lasting positive impact on bilateral trade and long-term collaboration.