Trade exhibitions held during the 2nd Indonesia Africa Forum (IAF) and the 39th Trade Expo Indonesia (TEI) in 2024 have resulted in significant breakthroughs for Indonesia’s business relations with Namibia and Angola, according to recent meetings between the Indonesian Embassy in Windhoek (KBRI) and key business representatives from both countries. These exhibitions have proven instrumental in fostering new trade agreements, signaling a positive trajectory for Indonesia’s growing commercial footprint in Southern Africa.
The Indonesian Embassy in Windhoek expressed satisfaction with the progress made, highlighting the successful interactions between Namibian and Angolan business leaders and their Indonesian counterparts. “We are pleased to see such fruitful discussions and agreements between Namibian and Angolan entrepreneurs and Indonesian companies during the 2nd IAF and the 39th TEI,” said the Head of the Economic Function at the Indonesian Embassy.
Key Business Partnerships Emerging from the Exhibitions
The 39th Trade Expo Indonesia, which took place in October 2024, played a pivotal role in establishing direct business links between Indonesia and Namibia. Notably, JFT Pharma, a prominent Namibian pharmaceutical company, initiated discussions for collaboration with Bio Farma, a major Indonesian pharmaceutical manufacturer. CEO Paulus Mwandingi visited Bio Farma and OTTO Pharmaceutical Company in Bandung to inspect production facilities and explore potential partnerships. These engagements have led to JFT Pharma’s decision to begin importing pharmaceutical products from Indonesia by early 2025.
“We are excited to strengthen our business ties with Indonesian pharmaceutical companies. This collaboration will contribute significantly to the growth of our pharmaceutical sector in Namibia,” Mwandingi commented.
In addition to pharmaceuticals, Future Image Investment, another Namibian business, signed agreements with Indonesian producers of energy drinks and instant noodles during the 2nd Indonesia Africa Forum (IAF) held in September. Managing Director Anthony Atejioye confirmed that the company would begin marketing these Indonesian products in Namibia starting in 2025. “We believe Indonesian products have great potential in the Namibian market, and we are eager to introduce them to our consumers,” Atejioye said.
Angola’s Growing Interest in Indonesian Goods
Meanwhile, BPE, a leading Angolan company, also benefitted from the 39th TEI, using the exhibition to explore new opportunities in the importation of Indonesian consumer goods. Following their visit to the exhibition, BPE is focusing on importing a wide range of Indonesian products, including snacks, packaged beverages, and cooking oil. Director Paulino stated, “We see great potential for Indonesian food and beverage products in Angola. Our goal is to introduce these high-quality products to our local market.”
Beyond product importation, BPE is expanding its business interests into the tourism sector. “We are also looking to develop a travel agency business that focuses on promoting Indonesia as a tourist destination for Angolan travelers,” Paulino added. The company is in discussions with the Indonesian Embassy to facilitate tourist visas for Angolan citizens planning to visit Indonesia in early 2025.
Expanding Indonesia’s Market Presence
The positive outcomes from these exhibitions signal the growing trade relationship between Indonesia and Southern Africa. Indonesia’s active participation in the 2nd IAF and the 39th TEI has proven vital in not only strengthening existing partnerships but also in opening new avenues for trade and investment. Indonesian products, especially in sectors like pharmaceuticals, food and beverages, and energy drinks, are gaining traction in both Namibia and Angola, with significant potential for future growth.
The Indonesian Embassy in Windhoek has been at the forefront of fostering these connections, facilitating meetings, and providing support to businesses looking to expand into the Southern African market. The Indonesian government remains committed to boosting bilateral trade, encouraging the exchange of goods, services, and investments with both Namibia and Angola.
Looking Forward: A Promising Trade Future
With the initial success of these business agreements, both Namibia and Angola are expected to become key partners in Indonesia’s trade diversification strategy in Africa. As both countries embark on the implementation of these agreements in 2025, Indonesia is poised to solidify its position as a reliable trade partner and exporter in Southern Africa.
The next steps include not only the fulfillment of existing agreements but also the exploration of additional sectors for collaboration, such as infrastructure, manufacturing, and technology. The ongoing cooperation between Indonesia and Southern Africa is expected to continue growing, creating new opportunities for businesses on both sides and contributing to the region’s economic development.
Conclusion
The success of the 2nd Indonesia Africa Forum and the 39th Trade Expo Indonesia exhibitions highlights the deepening trade ties between Indonesia, Namibia, and Angola. These exhibitions have proven to be vital platforms for fostering new partnerships, expanding market access, and introducing Indonesian products to key sectors in Southern Africa. With several new agreements set to be implemented in 2025, Indonesia’s presence in the region is poised for significant growth, further cementing its role as a dynamic trade partner in Africa.