Darwin is hosting the three-day 2022 Australian-Indonesian Business Council conference being held today through November 4 to boost trade and economic ties between the two countries.

The conference, themed ‘Partnering for Growth – Stronger, Together’, is being attended by more than 250 Australian and Indonesian business organisations and government leaders. The talks will focus on how to foster greater economic partnerships to achieve more robust and resilient economies in the future.

The AIBC conference is being touted as providing Territory businesses the opportunity to gain vital insights into trade and investment prospects in Indonesia and will focus on finding ways to maximize business prospects in agriculture, education, digital economy, tourism, and healthcare, among others.

“The AIBC is delighted to partner with the Northern Territory Government in hosting this year’s AIBC National Conference in Darwin,” AIBC national president Jennifer Mathews said.

“With its strategic proximity to Indonesia, Darwin is the ideal location to explore opportunities for deepening Australia’s trade and investment ties with Indonesia.”

Indonesia, which was identified as a high-priority market in the NT International Engagement Strategy 2022-2026, is now one of the Territory’s biggest trading partners.

This financial year alone, goods exported to Indonesia reached $556 million—the highest level in more than 10 years.

Conference speakers include HE Dr Siswo Pramono, Indonesian Ambassador to Australia; Mr Arsjad Rasjid P.M. Chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Senator Don Farrell, Federal Minister for Trade.

Territory representative to Indonesia, Yudistira Adipratama, who is tasked with identifying engagement, trade and investment opportunities for Territory businesses will also be speaking at the conference.

“The conference will be an excellent opportunity to highlight and reaffirm the unique role the Territory has in Australia’s relationship with Indonesia. I look forward to providing facilitations to businesses and strengthening the two‑way trade between the two jurisdictions,” Mr Adipratama said.

“With expert speakers from Australia and Indonesia sharing their insights on opportunities in agribusiness, education and training, infrastructure, the energy transition and many more – all sectors where there is strong potential to build strategic partnerships with Indonesia.”

Trade Minister Nicole Manison said Indonesia’s growing economy provides enormous opportunities for Territory businesses to harness trade relationships and attract new investment.

“With key government and business leaders attending, the AIBC conference provides a unique platform to network, be inspired by the best and brightest in key industries, and gain resources to boost your business strategy,” Ms Manisaon said.

The conference will conclude with a gala dinner at the Pavilion, Mindil Beach Resort.