site.btaBulgaria, Indonesia See Potential to Deepen Economic Cooperation

Outgoing Economy and Industry Minister Peter Dilov and Indonesian Ambassador to Bulgaria Listiana Operananta discussed on Monday the opportunities for deepening bilateral economic and trade cooperation, the Ministry said. The two agreed that there is significant potential for developing relations in a number of sectors of mutual interest, both in trade and investment.

Minister Dilov highlighted the importance of the upcoming 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Bulgaria and Indonesia as an important symbol and a solid basis for further strengthening the partnership.

The meeting also discussed the role of the Joint Commission for Economic Cooperation as a key instrument for activating and practically deepening bilateral economic relations. Holding a session of the commission was identified as an important step towards achieving concrete results.

Dilov noted that despite Indonesia’s positive economic development, the level of bilateral trade still does not fully reflect the existing potential. According to data for the period January - September 2025, trade turnover between Bulgaria and Indonesia amounted to USD 147.3 million.

He also stressed the importance of the recent appointment of a head of the Trade and Economic Affairs Office in Jakarta, which, he said, would contribute to boosting bilateral economic relations with Indonesia, one of the fastest-growing and most stable economies in Southeast Asia.

The Economy Minister and the Ambassador also discussed opportunities to expand exports, as well as joint initiatives in areas such as the food and beverage industry, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and others.

According to data from the Bulgarian National Bank, cumulative foreign direct investment from Indonesia in Bulgaria amounted to EUR 44.6 million as of 2024.