Trade between Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates reached $6.41 billion in 2025, while Indonesian companies seeking to expand there need product certifications and developed distribution channels, Indonesia's Consul General Denny Lesmana said.
Lesmana made the comments in an interview with Gulf News. He said the 2025 total was more than 60% above the $4 billion recorded in 2021. Trade had grown since the Indonesia-United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement took effect on Sept. 1, 2023.
The agreement lowers or removes tariffs on a broad range of goods. Its provisions also address digital trade, customs facilitation and the Islamic economy.
Jewelry, precious metals and gemstones lead Indonesia's non-oil exports to the UAE, Lesmana said. He also cited interest in food and beverages, coffee, spices and building materials. Indonesian firms are considering a UAE presence, including in free zones, where he said foreign ownership can be full and licensing streamlined.
For businesses entering the market, that involves securing relevant product certifications, following halal and labeling standards, and developing distribution channels and partnerships with local businesses, Lesmana said. The Consulate General in Dubai coordinates commercial outreach with the Indonesian Trade Promotion Center, based in Dubai, alongside the Indonesia Investment Promotion Center, based in Abu Dhabi. Lesmana said the consulate introduces companies to potential partners and promotes Trade Expo Indonesia. It also accompanies Emirati business delegations on visits to Indonesia to advance commercial interest toward transactions and investment.
Cooperation also involves hiring. Lesmana said Emirati companies had asked the consulate for help recruiting Indonesian professionals, particularly for hospitality and technology roles and other high-growth sectors. He said employers, prospective workers and training providers could coordinate skills development around industry needs. Protecting the welfare of Indonesian workers remains a priority, he said.
