Indonesia-Bahrain Investment and Trade Forum 2025 Boosts Economic Collaboration

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

The Bahrain Committee of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN Indonesia Komite Bahrain) hosted the inaugural Indonesia-Bahrain Investment and Trade Forum 2025 (IBITF25) on February 25 in Manama.

Organized in partnership with the Indonesian Embassy in Bahrain and supported by the Bahrain Indonesia Business and Friendship Society (BIBFS), the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Indonesia Diaspora Network (IDN) Bahrain chapter, the event aimed to strengthen bilateral trade and investment ties, particularly in the food and energy sectors.

Following the main event, in-depth discussions were held on February 26 and 27, focusing on investment opportunities.

Expanding Trade and Investment Opportunities
In his opening remarks, Ambassador Ardi Hermawan emphasized the forum's role in unlocking new investment prospects and deepening trade relations. He highlighted Bahrain’s strategic importance within KADIN Indonesia, alongside Saudi Arabia and the UAE, and expressed confidence that the forum would pave the way for stronger business partnerships.

The forum was attended by key economic leaders, including:

• Dr. Hana Kanoo, Chairwoman, Bahrain Indonesia Business and Friendship Society
• Mr. Aurelio Castilla, Head of International Office, Bahrain Economic Development Board
• Mr. Peter Bedson, Director of Electricity and Water Strategic Planning, Electricity and Water Authority

Their participation underscored the growing economic ties between Indonesia and Bahrain.

Key Investment Sectors Highlighted
IBITF25 showcased promising investment projects, particularly in the food and energy industries, including:

• Protein Sources (Chicken Meat & Eggs): Trade opportunities in slaughterhouses, farming, and hatcheries in Indonesia
• Renewable Energy: Development of micro-hybrid wind turbine power solutions
• Oil Refinery: Investment prospects in East Java, Indonesia

Additional trade opportunities were presented in premium roasted coffee, tea, and automotive tires, attracting interest from Bahraini business representatives.

Next Steps for Economic Cooperation
As a follow-up to IBITF25, KADIN Indonesia Komite Bahrain will publish:

1. A Handbook on Doing Business in Indonesia and Bahrain
2. A White Paper on Indonesia-Bahrain Investment and Trade Opportunities

Representing KADIN Indonesia Komite Bahrain at IBITF25 were:

• Dr. Dripa Sjabana (Chair)
• Dr. Elfan Kaukab
• Mr. Ozy F. Sjarindra
• Mrs. Putri Nita
• Mrs. Amelia Anzeline (Representative in Manama)

The forum generated strong investment and trade interest, with several business ventures expected to move forward, further solidifying Indonesia-Bahrain economic relations.