Indonesia and China are two countries with large populations and large economies. The trade relations and economic, cultural and political exchanges between these two countries have been going on for a long time. So, let’s take a look at the relationship between Indonesia and China.

1. Trade relations.

Trade relations between Indonesia and China have a long history, and it has been more than seventy years since the two countries established diplomatic relations. In the past few years, as cooperation between the two countries has deepened, trade volume has also increased significantly. China is one of Indonesia’s largest trading partners, and Indonesia is China’s third largest trading partner in the ASEAN region. Indonesia is an important import market for natural gas and coal for China, and China is also exporting high-value commodities such as machinery and equipment, automobiles and electronic products to Indonesia. With the proposal of the “One Belt, One Road” initiative, the trade relations between the two countries will be further strengthened.

2. Investment relationship.

The main areas of Chinese investment in Indonesia are manufacturing, energy industry and infrastructure. In recent years, the amount of investment by Chinese companies in Indonesia has been increasing, with key investment areas including finance, petrochemicals, power and infrastructure. In comparison, the amount of Indonesian investment in China is relatively small. However, while establishing bilateral investment relations, we should be alert to some potential investment conflicts and risks, strengthen supervision and ensure the sustainability of investments.

3. Cultural and educational exchanges.

In addition to economic and political exchanges, cultural and educational exchanges between China and India have also been continuously deepened. In 2019, China and Indonesia launched a series of celebrations to celebrate the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries 70
anniversary cultural events. These activities include not only cultural and artistic performances, exhibitions, artwork displays and other projects, but also educational projects including language research, academic exchanges and talent training. At the same time, Indonesia is also a major destination for Chinese students to study abroad. More and more Chinese students come to Indonesia to study Indonesian language, culture and history. At the same time, more and more Indonesian students choose to study in Chinese institutions of higher learning.

4. Political relations.

China and Indonesia have different positions and views on regional and international issues. Political exchanges between them can help both sides better understand each other’s political culture and values. The interaction between the two countries also shows that dialogue and cooperation between the two sides have become one of the important mechanisms for resolving international issues. Especially when dealing with South China Sea disputes, Indonesia has played a constructive bridge role.

Despite some potential competition or strategic issues between China and Indonesia, the two countries are getting closer in terms of trade, investment, cultural and political relations. Both sides hope to establish a development strategic partnership, strengthen bilateral trade, investment and educational exchanges, and expand growing areas of cooperation. The interaction between China and India has become one of the important mechanisms for solving regional problems. As time goes by, this in-depth cooperation between the two countries will continue to promote the economic development of the two countries and the region, and further promote the peace and stable development of the Asian region. However, there are also certain pressures and disputes in the trade relationship between the two countries. In the past few years, China has had trade disputes with other countries, but regarding the relationship between China and Indonesia, the Indonesian government stated that it will take active measures to establish a fair and sustainable trade environment, and encourage and support domestic enterprises and Chinese enterprises establish good cooperative relations.

The above introduction is relevant knowledge about the relationship between Indonesia and China. In short, the relationship between Indonesia and China continues to expand and deepen exchanges in the economic, cultural and political fields. Trade and investment cooperation between the two countries is the most important component of this relationship. As time goes by, both parties will promote more opportunities and cooperation and drive their common development.