Get to Know Jakarta’s Business Communities: EKONID & BritCham

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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