From September 8 to 11, 2025, AHK Indonesia/EKONID, as part of the Foreign Market Entry Program (MEP) funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE), AHK Indonesia/EKONID, the German-Indonesian Chamber of Industry and Commerce, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK), and VDMA, organized a German business delegation to Indonesia focusing on automation solutions in manufacturing. The program aimed to strengthen German-Indonesian cooperation in automation technologies, highlight market opportunities, and facilitate business partnerships.
Day 1: Monday, 8 September 2025 – Jakarta
The event began with opening remarks from Mr. Jan Rönnfeld, who warmly welcomed the delegations and participants, followed by Mr. Christopher Liehr and Ms. Olivia Noor representing the Market Entry Program.
A briefing on German-Indonesian relations was delivered by Mrs. Anja Nitschke-Hoffmann of the German Embassy, followed by Mr. Jan Rönnfeld’s presentation on Indonesia’s new government and economic outlook.
Delegates then heard from Mr. Oliver Döhne, who described Indonesia as “a big market in Southeast Asia” for automation, and from Mr. Timo Schäffler, who provided insights on the automation sector from a German company perspective.
A lively roundtable discussion ensued, covering challenges and opportunities in Indonesia’s automation market. Key highlights included Mr. Malik Khidir (ASRII) on robotics automation solutions, Mr. Ali Soebroto (Indonesian Telematics Device Industry Association) on telematics trends, Mr. Franky Christian (APTIKNAS) on digital infrastructure demands, and Mr. Yohanes P. Widjaja (APPI) on mechanical and electrical innovations.
In the afternoon, the delegation visited the Ministry of Industry, where Mr. Setia Diarta, Director General of ILMATE, welcomed the participants and provided an overview of the regulatory framework, industry growth, and demand for automation machinery. The day concluded with a networking dinner at Semaja Menteng, connecting German delegates with Indonesian companies.
Day 2: Tuesday, 9 September 2025 – Jakarta
The second day featured a series of presentations on industry trends and German technological solutions. After opening remarks by Mr. Christopher Liehr (VDMA) on the Indonesian Automation Machinery potential, a representative from the Indonesian Ministry of Industry highlighted “Making Indonesia 4.0” and the country’s steps toward digitalization and automation.
Delegation members then introduced their solutions:
- Mr. Petrus Tedja (Toolcraft AG) – automation solutions in machinery
- Mr. Martin Hofmann (Vision in Automation GmbH) – smart solutions for the semiconductor industry
- Mr. Adrian Merkel (FRAMENCE) – digital twin and strategic intelligence for smarter decisions
- Dr.-Ing. Phillip Wallat (DfACE-Strategy Systems) – advanced strategies for automation
The day concluded with B2B meetings between German companies and Indonesian partners, providing opportunities for in-depth business discussions.
Day 3: Wednesday, 10 September 2025 – Batam
The delegation traveled to Batam to explore one of Indonesia’s most important manufacturing hubs. At the Batam Free Trade Zone Authority (BP Batam), Mr. Dendi Gustinandar welcomed the group and presented investment opportunities in Batam’s manufacturing sector.
The delegation then visited PT. SAT Nusapersada, where Mr. Bidin Yusuf and Mr. Smailly Andi, introduced the company and highlighted how advanced automation technologies are enhancing production efficiency.
Day 4: Thursday, 11 September 2025 – Batam
The final day began with a visit to PT. Wohlrab Indonesia, where Mr. Christian Wohlrab, President Director, introduced the company and hosted presentations and a facility tour.
The delegation also participated in German Technology Day at Batamindo Industrial Park opened by Mrs. Ariastuty Sirait from BP Batam, where member companies presented their innovations, engaged in Q&A sessions, and held B2B meetings with Indonesian companies.
The program concluded with a final networking dinner, marking the end of a productive week of exchanges and partnerships.
Significance for Indonesia’s Automation Industry
The Business Initiation Indonesia delegation highlighted the significant potential for German-Indonesian collaboration in the automation sector. With Indonesia’s rapid industrial development, growing digital infrastructure, and commitment to Making Indonesia 4.0, German technologies in robotics, digital twins, semiconductors, and smart manufacturing solutions are well-positioned to support local industries.
The event successfully provided a platform for knowledge exchange, built valuable networks, and laid the foundation for future cooperation between the two countries in advancing automation solutions across manufacturing industries.
EKONID / AHK Indonesien extends its gratitude to the participating ministries, associations, partners and companies that contributed to the success of this delegation trip.