Türkiye-Indonesia: Strengthening Trade and Strategic Partnership as Emerging Powers

Türkiye and Indonesia share a rich historical connection rooted in centuries of cultural, economic, and diplomatic exchanges. The relationship dates back to the early maritime trade routes, where traders from the Ottoman Empire and the Nusantara archipelago exchanged goods, knowledge, and traditions. Over time, both nations have developed strong political and economic ties, evolving into strategic partners with shared interests in global trade, economic resilience, and geopolitical stability.

Today, Türkiye and Indonesia stand as two emerging economic powers bridging Asia and Europe. As members of the G20 and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), both countries hold significant influence in global economic discussions, making their collaboration even more essential in shaping regional and global trade dynamics.

Expanding Trade and Investment Opportunities

Türkiye and Indonesia have substantial trade complementarities, making them ideal partners in various sectors. Both countries are rapidly industrializing, fostering robust manufacturing, energy, infrastructure, and technology industries. There is great potential for deeper cooperation in the following areas:

1. Manufacturing and Industrial Collaboration

• Türkiye is a key player in automotive, textiles, and defense industries, while Indonesia has a strong resource-based manufacturing sector.
• Joint ventures can be developed to produce high-value goods for regional and global markets.

2. Energy and Infrastructure Development

• With Indonesia’s vast natural resources and Türkiye’s expertise in renewable energy and construction, both nations can collaborate on sustainable energy projects, power generation, and smart infrastructure.
• Türkiye’s advanced transportation and logistics industry can contribute to Indonesia’s infrastructure expansion under its National Strategic Projects (PSN).

3. Agriculture and Halal Industry Growth

• Both countries are agriculture-rich nations that can strengthen bilateral trade in food security, palm oil, spices, and processed halal food.
• Türkiye’s position as a gateway to European markets can help Indonesian agricultural products penetrate the EU and Middle Eastern markets.

4. Tourism and Cultural Exchange

• Türkiye and Indonesia are top global tourism destinations, with Istanbul and Bali ranking among the world’s most visited cities.
• Enhanced aviation connectivity, tourism investment, and cultural exchanges can further boost the industry.

Türkiye and Indonesia as a Strategic Hub between Asia and Europe

In the evolving multipolar world order, Türkiye and Indonesia are strategically positioned to serve as hubs for trade, investment, and diplomacy between Asia and Europe. Türkiye, with its geopolitical location bridging Europe and the Middle East, serves as a vital trade corridor for global commerce. Likewise, Indonesia, as the largest economy in Southeast Asia and a key member of ASEAN, acts as a gateway to the Asia-Pacific region.

By strengthening bilateral cooperation, Türkiye and Indonesia can create a multi-aligned trade and investment corridor that connects Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. This collaboration can also support regional economic frameworks such as:

• Indonesia’s BRICS+ Membership: Positioning Indonesia within a growing economic alliance that complements Türkiye’s regional trade networks.
• Türkiye’s Role in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI): Enhancing its infrastructure and connectivity with Asia.
• ASEAN-Türkiye Sectoral Dialogue Partnership: Expanding Türkiye’s engagement with Southeast Asia through Indonesia.

A Roadmap for Stronger Türkiye-Indonesia Collaboration

To fully capitalize on these opportunities, policymakers and business leaders must prioritize:

1. Trade Agreements & Investment Protection – Strengthening trade frameworks to facilitate smooth investment flows.
2. Logistics & Connectivity – Expanding direct flights, shipping routes, and digital trade links.
3. Technology & Innovation Partnerships – Joint research initiatives in AI, fintech, and digital transformation.
4. SME & Entrepreneurship Support – Connecting Turkish and Indonesian SMEs to scale up global market access.

Conclusion: A Shared Vision for Global Economic Leadership

As rising economic powers, Türkiye and Indonesia have a unique opportunity to redefine regional trade and investment landscapes. By leveraging their strategic locations, industrial strengths, and historical ties, both nations can drive greater economic integration between Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Through continued collaboration, Türkiye and Indonesia can establish themselves as key global trade players, fostering inclusive growth and prosperity in the years to come.

By fostering deeper trade and investment partnerships, both nations can rise together as influential forces in global economic development.