Kadin Optimistic Indonesia and Thailand Can Boost Food Security Cooperation

The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) is optimistic that Indonesia and Thailand have a significant opportunity to advance together globally in the food security sector. This would be achieved by combining the resource strengths, biodiversity, and long agricultural experience of both nations. Speaking at the Indonesia-Thailand Business Forum in Jakarta, Kadin Chairman Anindya Bakrie stated that collaboration between the two countries should not only be directed at increasing competitiveness but also at creating a shared advantage capable of competing on a world stage. The key to achieving this position lies in innovation. “There are opportunities in halal, clean energy, digital connectivity, advanced manufacturing, and the digital economy. But there is one area where I believe we can do this together globally. That is food security,” Anindya said. He noted that Thailand already has an international reputation in the agricultural sector, from rice products to various tropical fruit commodities that have been accepted by the global market. However, he stressed that competition between Indonesia and Thailand is not the main focus. According to him, the two countries possess complementary strengths that can build a stronger food ecosystem. “Indonesia brings a lot of resources, biodiversity,” he said. The Indonesian and Thai governments are targeting bilateral trade value to reach USD 20 billion by 2030 through strengthening strategic partnerships in various sectors. The commitment was conveyed by President Prabowo Subianto in a joint press statement after receiving a visit from Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta. “Economic cooperation remains the main pillar of our bilateral relations. We are optimistic that the trade target of USD 20 billion by 2030 can be achieved through the implementation of the strategic partnership roadmap,” Prabowo said. During the first visit by a Thai Prime Minister to Indonesia in 15 years, the two leaders adopted the Indonesia-Thailand Strategic Partnership Roadmap 2026–2030 as a guide to strengthen bilateral relations across various fields.