China – Indonesia Monthly Brief : April 2025

  • TransNusa opens Denpasar-Guangzhou PP route: After launching the Denpasar-Perth route on March 20, 2025, TransNusa is adding another international route. The new Denpasar-Guangzhou PP route began operating on April 13, 2025. The goal is to make Denpasar a major hub in central Indonesia. This route also offers an easier and more affordable travel alternative for travelers. The route opening was attended by TransNusa’s President Director, Bayu Sutanto.
  • Indonesian Badminton Team to BAC China: On April 6, 2025, the Indonesian badminton team left for Ningbo, China. They will participate in the Badminton Asia Championship (BAC). Gregoria Mariska and the team flew in using Cathay Pacific airline from Soekarno-Hatta Airport. The team brought full strength, including a new mixed doubles pair: Jafar Hidayatullah and Felisha Pasaribu.
  • The peak of Whoosh’s return flow is predicted to reach 23 thousand passengers: PT KCIC predicted the peak of the Whoosh Fast Train’s return flow to occur on April 6, 2025. It is estimated that the number of passengers would reach 23 thousand people. 
  • 75 Years of RI-China Relations: Indonesian Ambassador to China, Djauhari Oratmangun, stated that RI-China relations have made significant progress in the last 75 years. The progress has particularly occurred in the economic field. This statement was made during a hospitality event at the Indonesian Embassy in Beijing, commemorating the start of diplomatic relations on April 13, 1950.
  • MoU Signing of PWNU Central Java and Governor’s Appreciation: On April 14, 2025, PWNU Central Java signed an MoU with 39 renowned universities and 10 companies from China. The event took place at the Central Java Great Mosque and was attended by the Governor of Central Java, Ahmad Luthfi. Governor Luthfi appreciated PWNU Central Java for its contribution in human resource development, in line with President Sukarno’s vision. Cooperation is carried out through LPTNU and RMI, focusing on improving education and the quality of human resources to support the vision of a Golden Indonesia 2045. This collaboration involves various global partners, including from China.
  • The visit of the Deputy Chairman of the MPR RI to China: Deputy Speaker of the MPR RI, Eddy Soeparno, made a working visit to China on April 14-17, 2025 at the invitation of the Chinese government. The visit aimed to discuss cooperation on energy transition and renewable energy utilization between Indonesia and China. On April 15, 2025, Eddy Soeparno met with Wang Huning, Chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Assembly Committee. The meeting was held in Beijing to strengthen Indonesia-China relations amid global political dynamics. Eddy emphasized the importance of a relationship of mutual respect, while Wang highlighted China’s role as a strategic partner in trade, industry and energy.
  • Indonesia-China Foreign and Defense Minister’s 2+2 Dialogue: On April 21, 2025, Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono and Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin held a 2+2 meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun in Beijing. The meeting aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation, especially in the field of security.
  • Chinese PM’s planned visit to Indonesia: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi announced that PM Li Qiang plans to visit Indonesia in late May 2025. This will be PM Li Qiang’s first visit since President Prabowo Subianto took office. This statement was made during a 2+2 meeting between high-ranking Indonesian and Chinese officials in Beijing.
  • Indonesia’s Coal Exports to China Decline: In March 2025, China’s coal imports from Russia, Australia and Mongolia increased. Imports from Indonesia actually fell by 9% due to the implementation of the Reference Coal Price (HBA) starting March 1, 2025. In fact, Indonesia is the largest supplier of coal to China.
  • The majority of Whoosh Fast Train Passengers are Tourist Travelers: KCIC’s Corporate Communication Manager stated that Whoosh is mostly used by tourists, not travelers. The reasons are integrated services, road congestion, and travel time efficiency.
  • Trump’s Tariffs Cue Reduction of China’s Dominance in Nickel Sector: Trump implemented a reciprocal tariff policy to restore the US mining industry. Erwin Aksa called this policy a signal for Indonesia to reduce the dominance of Chinese investors.
  • Chinese electric car brand XPeng will soon enter Indonesia: XPeng will launch two electric car models in Indonesia by 2025. Distribution and services are handled by PT Sinar Eka Laras (ERAL), part of Erajaya.
  • Chinese Investors Interested in Agricultural Investment in East Java: Maspion boss Alim Markus revealed investment plans for rice and sugarcane cultivation by China in East Java. Seeds will be imported directly from China and discussed with Governor Khofifah.
  • Indonesia Hit with 32% Import Tariff from US due to Closeness to China: Indonesia is hit with 32% import tariff due to economic closeness to China. Contributing factors include participation in RCEP, fast train projects, and bilateral trade.
  • China’s Advanced Vessel Suspected of ‘Spying’ Sails Near Indonesian Territory: Chinese ship detected off the coast of Australia, suspected to be a spy ship. China called this voyage a normal operation in accordance with international law. The incident has raised regional concerns following China’s fleet cruise around Australia.
  • Two Indonesian Fisheries Companies Approved by GACC to Export to China: The Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries has increased the number of fisheries companies that can export to China. The approval was granted by the GACC authorities after a negotiation process. The approved companies are ready to export and strengthen the competitiveness of Indonesian products in the Chinese market.
  • KCIC Suggests Passengers Use Feeder Trains on Backflow: PT KCIC urges Whoosh Rapid Train passengers to use the Feeder Train during the reverse flow. The use of the Feeder Train helps avoid delays. The Feeder Train schedule is adjusted to the Whoosh departure schedule.
  • China-Indonesia Cooperation Increasingly Important Amid World Turmoil: China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized the importance of strategic cooperation with Indonesia. This statement was made on the occasion of 75 years of China-Indonesia diplomatic relations. Indonesia is seen as a key partner to strengthen regional stability.
  • UI and HBUCM Develop Science-Based Traditional Medicine: Universitas Indonesia and Hubei University of Chinese Medicine are strengthening academic and research cooperation. The focus of the collaboration is on scientifically-based traditional medicine. The Rector of UI said the collaboration combines local wisdom and global knowledge.
  • 75 Years of China-Indonesia Relations a Model of Solidarity: President Xi Jinping called China-Indonesia relations an example of solidarity among developing countries. Congratulations were extended to President Prabowo. Xi emphasized the importance of close cooperation and mutual support between the two countries.
  • RI Needs to Negotiate with China on Tariffs: Mari Elka Pangestu suggested RI to diplomacy with China, not just the US. This is related to the response to President Trump’s tariff policy. She also emphasized the importance of domestic reform in Indonesia.
  • China Imports First Batch of Fresh Coconuts from Indonesia: A total of 200 kg of Indonesian fresh coconuts arrived in Fuzhou, China. This is the first shipment after being authorized by Chinese authorities. Marking an increase in Indonesia-China economic cooperation.
  • Prabowo’s strategy for managing tensions in the South China Sea: President Prabowo explains Indonesia’s strategy in managing regional tensions. Cited the successful settlement of the EEZ boundary with Vietnam as an example. Encourages peaceful resolution of border conflicts that are colonial legacies.
  • Chengdu’s “Tax Refund” Service Eases Indonesian Tourists: Indonesian tourists praised the one-stop tax refund service in Chengdu. Example: Fendi received a refund of 5,000 yuan. The Chunxi Road business district is also equipped with AI translator screens in 14 languages, including Indonesian.
  • US-China Trade War Has No Major Impact on Indonesian Agriculture: The Minister of Agriculture stated that the US-China trade war did not have a significant impact on Indonesia’s agricultural sector. Instead, there are benefits from the increase in export commodity prices. Indonesian farmers are considered to benefit from the global situation.
  • Increase in Direct Flights from China Boosts North Sulawesi Tourism: Direct flights from cities in China to Manado are increasing. Three airlines already serve this route. TransNusa will add flights from three Chinese cities in June and July. It is expected to boost tourism and the hospitality industry in North Sulawesi after the pandemic. The Indonesian government supports this move to attract more Chinese tourists.
  • China-Backed $3 Billion Nickel Smelter at Risk of Closing: PT Gunbuster Nickel Industry is at risk of closure due to its parent company in China (Jiangsu Delong) going bankrupt. Nickel ore supply problems and payment delays to energy suppliers occurred. Falling global nickel prices and limited mining quotas exacerbated the situation. The local smelting industry was affected even though it was previously competitive.
  • Meeting the Chinese Consul General, Bobby Explores Manufacturing Cooperation: North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution met with the Chinese Consul General in Medan and the Guangdong delegation. Discussing the potential for investment cooperation, export-import, and strengthening relations that have lasted 20 years.
  • Chinese Medical Device Manufacturer Invests Rp1.7 Trillion in Central Java: Allmed Medical builds medical device factory in Batang Industropolis SEZ, Central Java. Investment worth $100 million, target completion April 2026. Estimated to absorb more than 3,500 local workers. Expected to boost the domestic medical equipment industry and access to modern medical technology.
  • Ministry of Industry Strengthens Collaboration with Chinese Companies and Universities: Ministry of Industry collaborates with Chinese companies and universities to improve the quality of Indonesia’s industrial human resources. Minister of Industry Agus Gumiwang emphasized the importance of competent human resources for the growth of the industrial sector. Indonesia-China relations have been running for 75 years with a focus on developing globally competitive human resources.
  • BYD Factory Construction Plagued by Organized Thuggery: Moeldoko supports strict action against organizations that disrupt the construction of the BYD factory in Subang. Calls thuggery an obstacle to foreign investment. The Deputy Chairman of the MPR revealed the disturbance during a visit to China.
  • China’s Electric Cars Record Positive Performance in Early 2025: Sales of Chinese cars in Indonesia rose 154% in the first quarter of 2025. A total of 20,496 units were sold, including nearly 6,000 units from BYD. BYD entered the top 10 best-selling car brands nationwide.
  • China Supports the Opening of the Indonesian Consulate General in Chengdu: China supports the opening of the Indonesian Consulate General in Chengdu in 2025. This step is to strengthen Indonesian citizen services and economic relations. It was agreed to increase strategic cooperation in various sectors, including security and maritime.
  • Indonesia-China meeting touches on US import tariffs: Discussion on US import tariffs and strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two countries, with a focus on food security, energy, and downstream industries.
  • Foreign Minister Sugiono affirms “One China” principle: Indonesia supports the “One China” policy and considers the issues of Taiwan, Xinjiang, and Hong Kong as China’s internal affairs.
  • Modern fishing industry cooperation: MoU signing between Chinese company Hainan Jiangpeng and Indonesian company LELCO for modern fisheries industry project, utilizing Hainan Free Trade Port and Indonesia’s marine resources.
  • President Prabowo’s invitation to attend SCO: President Xi Jinping invited President Prabowo Subianto to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Tianjin in September 2025.
  • Indonesia-China security strategy dialogue mechanism: Agreement to establish a comprehensive strategic dialog mechanism, including cooperation on security and the development of Indonesia Emas 2045.
  • IESR encourages green energy transition: Indonesia-China cooperation on renewable energy projects as part of contribution to emission reduction and low-carbon economic growth.
  • Modern fishing industry cooperation: MoU signing between Chinese company Hainan Jiangpeng and Indonesian company LELCO for modern fisheries industry project, utilizing Hainan Free Trade Port and Indonesia’s marine resources. Chinese company Huayou replaces LG Energy Solution in a US$9.8 billion integrated nickel battery project in Indonesia.
  • Indonesian food stall in China goes viral: An Indonesian food stall in Fuzhou, China, went viral thanks to traditional recipes and social media attention.
  • China remains Indonesia’s top non-oil and gas importer: China remains the main supplier of Indonesia’s non-oil and gas imports until March 2025 with a contribution of 39.96%.
  • 3 Chinese foreigners secured by Mamuju Immigration: Three foreign nationals from China were secured for immigration administration violations despite complete documents.
  • EESA Summit encourages energy collaboration between Indonesia-China: EESA Secretary-General Rene Duan said that the EESA Summit is an important platform for collaboration between Indonesia and China in realizing a sustainable energy transition. Through this forum, both countries have the opportunity to strengthen strategic cooperation in developing clean energy technologies and policies for an environmentally friendly future.
  • Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers explore Indonesian market: Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers, including Sinski, participated in the PEVS 2025 exhibition in Jakarta to explore the Indonesian market.
  • NTB Deputy Governor hopes Chinese investment will increase: The Deputy Governor of NTB hopes that the visit of the Chinese Consul General will strengthen cooperation in investment, education, and tourism.
  • Indonesian speech competition in China: A national-level Indonesian speech competition in Beijing was attended by Chinese students, with the theme of China-Indonesia cooperation and language learning in the digital era.