Pakistan-Indonesia trade on the rise, says consul general

KARACHI: Consul General of Indonesia Drs Mudzakir MA on Wednesday said that trade between Indonesia and Pakistan has continued to grow steadily, reaching $4.2 billion in 2024.

 From January to September 2025, bilateral trade stood at $2.92 billion, compared to $2.69 billion in the same period in 2024, reflecting a strong upward trajectory.

He noted that while trade performance has been positive, there remains considerable potential to diversify the bilateral trade basket across sectors including textiles, Halal products, agriculture, consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, technology and digital innovation.

The consul general made the remarks during a visit to the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) and announced that an Indonesian business delegation will participate in the International Consumer Product Fair (ICPF) at the Expo Centre Karachi from December 11 to 14, 2025, encouraging KCCI members to engage in B2B meetings.

He emphasised that Indonesia is committed to advancing bilateral economic cooperation through trade facilitation, SME development, technology exchange, sustainable business partnerships and deeper private-sector linkages. He stressed the need to move towards high value-added and technology-driven sectors, highlighting opportunities in Halal product development, textiles, agribusiness, renewable energy, IT and digital transformation.

Reaffirming the strong ties between the two nations, he noted that Indonesia and Pakistan share historical linkages, faith and mutual aspirations for peace and development. Bilateral cooperation has expanded across trade, investment, education, cultural exchanges and people-to-people contacts, with Pakistan being one of Indonesia’s strategic partners in South Asia.

President KCCI Rehan Hanif welcomed the consul general and said the visit represents a valuable opportunity to deepen trade and economic linkages. He highlighted the need to further diversify trade, add value, and explore collaboration in pharmaceuticals, Halal food, IT, tourism and other sectors.

He also invited Indonesian investors to explore opportunities in Pakistan’s Special Economic Zones, particularly under CPEC, where competitive incentives are available, and proposed initiatives including trade delegations, exhibitions, sector-specific matchmaking sessions, and improved shipping and logistics connectivity to enhance bilateral trade efficiency.