PALMOILMAGAZINE, NANNING — Indonesia made a strong appearance at the 22nd China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) and China-ASEAN Business and Investment Summit (CABIS), held at the Nanning International Convention and Exhibition Center, Guangxi, from September 17–21, 2025. Led by the Ministry of Trade, the Indonesian delegation highlighted sustainable palm oil as a flagship commodity, alongside advances in digital technology and the cultural heritage of South Kalimantan.
The event carried significant weight, not only marking 75 years of Indonesia–China relations but also reinforcing the role of Indonesian palm oil in the global supply chain. In his keynote speech, Chinese Vice President Han Zheng underscored ASEAN–China’s importance as trade partners, with bilateral trade reaching US$686.78 billion as of August 2025.
At the Indonesian Commodity Pavilion (Hall D5), palm oil and its derivatives drew strong attention, presented alongside coffee, cloves, tropical fruits, furniture, and fashion products. The Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) used the occasion to promote sustainable palm oil, with a focus on ISPO certification and downstream opportunities in green energy.
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Strategic business agreements further emphasized the industry’s role. On September 17, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between Johnlin Agro Raya and Yonghong Group, centered on sustainable palm oil development. The following day, the Plantation Fund Management Agency Dialogue Forum highlighted downstream processing, certification, and the palm oil sector’s contribution to the green energy transition.
Regional and Cultural Strength
Beyond palm oil, Indonesia showcased digital innovation at the AI Pavilion (Hall B1) through the Indonesian Telematics Society (Mastel), while the South Kalimantan Pavilion (Hall B2) presented tourism, culinary experiences, and cultural attractions. “South Kalimantan and Guangxi share common resources in agriculture and plantations, including palm oil. This partnership is expected to deliver real benefits,” said Ahmad Bagiawan, Head of the South Kalimantan Trade Office, representing Governor Muhidin.
The Indonesian Pavilion also featured fashion shows by designer Yoseph Kurnia in collaboration with the Jember Fashion Carnival, captivating international visitors.
CAEXPO–CABIS 2025 reaffirmed Indonesia’s trade diplomacy, especially in expanding market access for sustainable palm oil in China and across ASEAN. “This participation goes beyond product promotion—it strengthens strategic partnerships, particularly in palm oil trade, one of Indonesia’s leading commodities,” stated Indonesia’s Deputy Ambassador to China, Parulian Silalahi. (P2)
