Dubai Chamber Of Commerce Launches Indonesian Business Council To Boost Trade Relations

The Dubai Chamber of Commerce has introduced the Indonesian Business Council to boost trade and investment ties between Dubai and Indonesia. This initiative aims to create new business opportunities and strengthen collaboration between the two regions' business communities. With this addition, the chamber now oversees 59 Business Councils.

The establishment of the Indonesian Business Council highlights Dubai's increasing attraction for Indonesian businesses and investors. In the first nine months of 2024, non-oil trade between Dubai and Indonesia exceeded AED 10 billion, showcasing robust commercial connections. The number of Indonesian businesses registered with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce grew by 60% last year, reaching 160 by December 2024.

Dubai International Chamber opened a representative office in Jakarta in 2023 as part of efforts to enhance trade relations with Indonesia. Continuing this momentum, the chamber facilitated 200 business meetings in Jakarta in May 2024. These meetings involved 17 companies from Dubai engaging with Indonesian firms during a trade mission to Southeast Asia, which also included Vietnam.

The inaugural annual general meeting of the Indonesian Business Council took place at Dubai Chambers' headquarters. Members discussed enhancing collaboration, organising bilateral events, exploring new opportunities, and sharing market insights. This meeting set the stage for future cooperation between businesses in both regions.

Maha Al Gargawi, Vice President of Business Advocacy at Dubai Chambers, stated that "Business Councils play a vital role in strengthening trade and investment ties by providing interactive platforms for dialogue and cooperation between business communities." She emphasised their commitment to empowering these councils to help companies explore new opportunities and enhance competitiveness.

The 'Doing Business with Indonesia' forum held during the trade mission attracted a record 472 participants. This included high-ranking officials, business leaders, and local companies eager to partner with Dubai's business community. The strong turnout indicates growing interest from Indonesia's private sector in collaborating with Dubai-based companies.

This strategic move by the Dubai Chamber underscores its dedication to fostering economic growth through international partnerships. By facilitating dialogue and cooperation, it aims to support sustainable development within Dubai's private sector while expanding its global reach.

With inputs from WAM