Planning Your Business Trip to Indonesia

1. How to Plan Your Business Trip in Indonesia

Surprisingly, organizing a business trip to Indonesia requires more than just booking a flight and hotel. You’ll want to consider the complexities of getting around this vast archipelago, especially as it has more than 17,000 islands! Most visitors fly into Jakarta, the capital, or Bali, the famous tourist hotspot, but many business travelers need to reach other cities as well. According to Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, nearly 10 million visitors were recorded in 2022, with a notable portion traveling for business. (Don’t forget to check visa requirements based on your nationality and intended stay!)

For those coming to Indonesia, planning transportation is key. Jakarta and Surabaya, Indonesia's second-largest city, both have extensive airport connections, but local travel within cities can be challenging due to traffic congestion. Did you know that Jakarta ranks as one of the most congested cities in the world, with an average commute time of 48 minutes per trip? So, if you’re traveling between cities, it may be worth booking flights ahead for smoother transit. (Renting a car might be an option, but hiring a driver is often more convenient and affordable in the city traffic!)

When it comes to lodging, Indonesia offers a range of accommodations for every budget. Major cities like Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bali have numerous international hotel chains catering to business travelers. It’s a good idea to book well in advance if your trip coincides with a major conference, as rooms fill up quickly during these times. In 2023, hotel occupancy in Jakarta alone hit 80% during peak seasons! Make sure to research the best location for easy access to business districts or event venues. A good idea too can be using serviced apartments in the country.

See more information about planning your trip:Visit Indonesia Tourism Page

2. What Cities Are Indonesia’s Top Business Hubs

Definitely, Jakarta is Indonesia’s primary business hub and a magnet for international companies. With a population of over 11 million, it’s the country's economic center and home to major industries, including banking, finance, and technology. Many multinational corporations have headquarters in the capital city, and Jakarta’s central business district (CBD) hosts top players in energy, telecommunications, and retail. According to the World Bank, Jakarta contributes nearly 20% of Indonesia’s GDP. (Have you ever considered the city’s potential for business networking? Go to see list of Indonesian business and the Indonesian Business Directory at Bizpages)

Bali, surprisingly, is also emerging as a business hub, particularly in creative sectors like digital marketing, tech startups, and co-working spaces. Bali isn’t just about beaches; it’s increasingly a haven for remote workers, entrepreneurs, and startups from around the world. Digital nomads and business travelers alike are flocking to the island, which has seen a sharp increase in co-working spaces and networking events since 2020. (Consider adding Bali to your itinerary for a balanced mix of work and leisure!)

Another notable business destination is Surabaya, the capital of East Java and Indonesia’s second-largest city. Surabaya’s strategic location as a port city makes it ideal for trade and logistics, and it’s a key industrial hub with strong growth in manufacturing and shipping sectors. In 2022, Surabaya’s economy grew by 5.1%, outperforming many other regions in Indonesia. (Surabaya’s growth offers exciting prospects for those interested in regional trade and industry!)

Learn more about Indonesia’s business hubs: Indonesia Investment Coordinating Board

3. What Indonesian Business Sectors Are Most Attractive

Undoubtedly, Indonesia’s digital economy is booming, with a projected value of $130 billion by 2025, according to Google and Temasek. This growth has attracted a surge of foreign investment in e-commerce, fintech, and online education sectors. If you’re thinking about investing, keep in mind that Indonesia is Southeast Asia’s largest internet economy! As internet penetration increases (currently at 77%), the digital market continues to expand rapidly. Tourism and real estate are flourishing sectors.

The energy sector is another top investment area, especially renewable energy. Indonesia has set ambitious goals to reach 23% renewable energy by 2025, aiming to become a leader in Southeast Asia’s renewable sector. With abundant resources like geothermal and solar energy, Indonesia’s energy market offers plenty of potential for investors looking to align with green initiatives. In 2023, the country attracted $1.5 billion in renewable energy investments alone! (What better time than now to consider Indonesia’s green energy market?)

Furthermore, the manufacturing industry has seen steady growth, particularly in automotive, electronics, and food processing. Indonesia’s government has introduced incentives to attract more foreign investment in these areas, resulting in $19.4 billion in foreign direct investment in 2022. With a young and increasingly skilled workforce, Indonesia’s manufacturing potential is impressive. (Do you have plans to explore Indonesia’s manufacturing capabilities?)

Learn more about Indonesia’s industries: Indonesia Official Investment Page

4. What Are Business Fairs, Conferences, and Trade Shows to Visit in Indonesia in 2025

If you’re looking to attend business events in 2025, Indonesia has a rich calendar of fairs and conferences across various sectors. The Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS) in Jakarta is a must-visit for anyone in the automotive industry. In 2024, this event drew over 400 exhibitors from around the globe, showcasing innovations in electric vehicles and mobility solutions. (Are you involved in the auto industry? If so, consider adding IIMS to your calendar!)

Surprisingly, the Trade Expo Indonesia (TEI) is another flagship event you won’t want to miss. This expo, held annually in Tangerang near Jakarta, is one of the largest in the region, focusing on exports and global trade. In 2023, TEI featured over 1,000 exhibitors from various sectors, including textiles, agriculture, and manufacturing. With attendees from over 100 countries, this event is a gateway for exporters to find international partners. (Wouldn’t it be exciting to network with global trade leaders here?)

For tech enthusiasts, the Tech in Asia Conference in Jakarta is a valuable event, bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators. With over 5,000 attendees each year, the conference offers insights into the latest tech trends, from AI to fintech. If you’re passionate about tech, this conference is a perfect opportunity to network and gain market insights! (Imagine the potential business connections you could make!)

Visit page to learn more about Indonesia’s business events: Trade Expo Indonesia