International chambers of commerce are valuable networks for businesses, and indeed communities for business people, here in Jakarta. They have been pivotal in facilitating business-to-business and business-to-government relationships both locally and across borders, and are often the quiet helping hand when it comes to ensuring security and confidence in doing business in Indonesia. NOW! Jakarta speaks to the leadership of two important chambers of commerce based in the capital, who share insight into the services and experiences they provide.
German-Indonesian Chamber of Industry and Commerce (EKONID)
Executive Director
A brief overview of EKONID today
EKONID has a history stretching back a full century. What began in 1924 as part of the early German chamber network, has grown into a modern institution that supports nearly 400 member companies in Indonesia. Over the years, we have moved beyond being a traditional business association to become a bridge between Germany and Indonesia – facilitating trade, investment, vocational training, and cultural exchange. Our role continues to evolve as we respond to the needs of our members and to global developments, from digitalisation to sustainability.
Our members range from manufacturing, automotive, and energy to logistics, healthcare, education, and services. This reflects the breadth of German business engagement in Indonesia and the strong interest of Indonesian firms in Germany.
We have members based not only in Jakarta but also in other parts of Indonesia, as well as in Germany, including Berlin. Our membership is diverse because our services are not limited to German companies alone; we also support companies from other European countries, if needed.
Can you share some key moments where EKONID has helped to foster stronger business and cultural links between Indonesia and Germany?
EKONID has long been a platform for political and economic exchange. Historic moments include welcoming German Chancellors such as Helmut Kohl and Angela Merkel to Jakarta, and Indonesian Presidents like B.J. Habibie and Joko Widodo to German business forums. Beyond diplomacy, we play a hands-on role: for example, in 2004, we coordinated €6.5 million in tsunami aid, showing that our network contributes not only in business but also in solidarity. More recently, we are advancing cooperation in renewable energy, green hydrogen, and vocational training. The signing of new MoUs with KADIN, APINDO, and ASTRA this year illustrates how we continue to build frameworks for growth and opportunity.
What services does EKONID provide to its members?
Our services range from market entry support and business partner search to legal advisory and vocational training. We also provide platforms for companies to present themselves, expand networks, and engage in policy dialogue. These services are grounded in decades of experience helping German businesses navigate Indonesia and Indonesian companies connect with Germany.
How often do EKONID members meet, and what are the regular events members can attend throughout the year?
Aside from the monthly Members Get Together, we host a range of flagship events every year: the Annual Members Meeting, Oktoberfest, and White Asparagus Dinner or Spargelessen. Beyond these, we also organise industry-specific conferences, business delegations, and networking sessions with other chambers. EKONID has a tradition of convening large-scale trade and innovation exhibitions, such as INDOGERMA, TECHNOGERMA, and most recently the Asia-Pacific Conference in 2018, which gathered over 1,000 CEOs and government representatives from around the globe.
Looking ahead, what are EKONID’s main priorities and initiatives for 2026?
Our priorities are forward-looking. First, to support Indonesia’s digital transformation and energy transition with German technology and expertise. Second, to expand vocational training programs that link high-tech solutions with tailored skills development. Third, to continue building what we call the “Chamber of the Future” by strengthening our facilities and services to match the evolving needs of members. With strong partnerships on both sides, EKONID will continue to be a trusted partner for German-Indonesian business for the next 100 years.
For more information, visit indonesien.ahk.de
British Chamber of Commerce in Indonesia (BritCham)
Executive Director
A brief overview of EKONID today
BritCham Indonesia is now in its 47th year, building on a British business presence that has spanned more than a century. From its beginnings as a membership-based organisation, it has grown into one of the most active and influential foreign chambers in Indonesia.
Over the years, BritCham has welcomed political leaders, global business figures, experts, and academics to its forums, reflecting its role as a respected platform for dialogue. Working closely with the British Embassy Department of Business and Trade and the British Council, whose senior representatives sit on the Board of Management, BritCham has developed a comprehensive service ecosystem to support businesses from market entry through to long-term operations.
Today, BritCham continues to evolve as a trusted partner, strengthening commercial and cultural ties between the United Kingdom and Indonesia. In doing so, we actively support the UK–Indonesia Strategic Partnership, which seeks to deepen collaboration across four key pillars: economic growth; climate and energy; defence and security; and people and society, with the latter focusing on advancing education, skills, health, and broader human development.
BritCham has around 200 members across key industries driving growth in Indonesia and the United Kingdom, including finance, energy, education, healthcare, technology, manufacturing, and consumer sectors. This diversity highlights BritCham’s role in fostering collaboration and bilateral trade.
What services does BritCham provide to members?
BritCham provides value through networking, sector forums, advocacy, policy engagement, market insights, and promotional platforms. We also offer tailored support such as trade services, business matchmaking, and partnership development to help members succeed. In addition, our dedicated HUBs provide platforms for meaningful discussion and collaboration across priority areas, including Health, Wellbeing and the Life Sciences; Professional Women; Sustainability and Environment; Talent; and Technology and Digitalisation.
How often do BritCham members meet, and what are the regular events members can attend throughout the year?
We host an Annual General Meeting as a key occasion for members to connect. Throughout the year, our calendar features panel discussions, sector roundtables, and high-level networking. Most notably, the Global Partners by BritCham series, held three times annually with Commonwealth, Americas, and Asia Pacific networks. The year closes with our much-anticipated Annual Christmas Bash, blending business with celebration. Don’t miss out see what’s next at britcham.or.id/events.
What social or cultural initiatives has BritCham facilitated in Indonesia?
Beyond business, we foster cultural connections through Giving Kids a Sporting Chance, introducing disadvantaged children to UK sports, and our Annual Christmas Bash, which blends festive warmth with professional networking.
Looking ahead, what are BritCham’s main priorities and initiatives for 2026?
Our 2026 priorities focus on three pillars: strengthening UK-Indonesia trade and investment in growth sectors such as sustainability, digital innovation, and education; enhancing member value through advocacy, regional reach, and services; and championing sustainability and inclusivity in line with global and national agendas. Through these, BritCham remains the leading platform for business growth and partnership.
For more information visit britcham.or.id
