InfoSAWIT, NANNING – Indonesia is once again participating in the China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) and the 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 is bringing an innovative concept, highlighting sustainable palm oil as a key commodity, alongside digital technology achievements and the cultural charm of South Kalimantan.
The event is a significant moment, not only to strengthen the Indonesia-China relationship, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary, but also to solidify Indonesia's position in the global palm oil supply chain. Chinese Vice President Han Zheng emphasized the important role of ASEAN-China as trading partners, with bilateral trade reaching US$686.78 billion as of August 2025.
At the Indonesia Commodity Pavilion (Hall D5), palm oil and its derivative products are a main attraction, along with coffee, cloves, tropical fruits, furniture, and fashion. The Palm Oil Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) is using this opportunity to campaign for sustainable palm oil, including ISPO certification and opportunities for green energy downstreaming based on palm oil.
The presence of palm oil is also highlighted in strategic business agendas. On September 17, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Johnlin Agro Raya and the Yonghong Group, focusing on the development of sustainable palm oil. On September 18, a Dialogue of the Plantation Fund Management Agency Forum will focus on palm oil downstreaming, certification, and the green energy transition.
Regional and Cultural Support
In addition to palm oil, Indonesia is also showcasing digital innovation at the AI Pavilion (Hall B1) through the Indonesian Telematics Society (Mastel), as well as the tourism and culinary charm of South Kalimantan at the City of Charm Pavilion (Hall B2). "South Kalimantan and Guangxi have similar resources in agriculture and plantations, including palm oil, so this collaboration is expected to bring tangible benefits," said the Head of the South Kalimantan Trade Office, Ahmad Bagiawan, in an official statement received by InfoSAWIT on Thursday (9/18/2025).
The Indonesian pavilion's vibrancy is further enhanced by a fashion show by Yoseph Kurnia with the Jember Fashion Carnaval, adding to the appeal for international visitors.
CAEXPO–CABIS 2025 is a means to strengthen Indonesia's trade diplomacy, particularly in expanding market access for sustainable palm oil in China and ASEAN. "This participation is not just about product promotion; it's about strengthening strategic partnerships, especially in palm oil trade, which is a key Indonesian commodity," said the Deputy Indonesian Ambassador to China, Parulian Silalahi. (T2)
