Indonesia attracts strong investor interest
3 June 2011
Strong international investor interest in Indonesia's mining, gas, oil and infrastructure sectors has been reflected by a recent gathering of more than 250 delegates in Beijing, China, where attendees were interested to learn about investment opportunities and challenges in the neighbouring country.
The Indonesia-China Investment Forum, held jointly by international law firm Allens Arthur Robinson (Allens) and the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia, attracted more than 70 Chinese companies, interested in increasing their knowledge of South-East Asia's powerhouse economy.
'Indonesia is squarely on the radar of not only Chinese, but also other international investors,' Jakarta-based Allens Partner David Holme said.
'Indonesia's stable government; its robust economy, which showed stability during the global economic downturn; and the country's abundant natural resources, place the nation as an attractive investment destination.'
The forum, which included an opening address by the Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia for the Peoples Republic of China, H. E. Mr Imron Cotan, focused on the opportunities and challenges facing infrastructure, energy and resources-related financing and investment in Indonesia.
During the forum, Mr Holme, Allens Partner Darren Murphy, and Widyawan & Partners Senior Partner Mr Widyawan, all presented on the commercial and legal issues faced by investors and financiers in Indonesia. Allens Special Counsel Frank Fan moderated the closing round-table discussion.
Mr Murphy said that interest was particularly strong within the region's oil and gas industries.
'The demand for new energy sources, both within and outside of Indonesia, and the nation's proximity to key markets, including China, mean we're working with local and international clients on some major projects,' Mr Murphy said.
'The forum was a great opportunity to grow understanding of the opportunities between Indonesia and China and we're particularly appreciative of the Ambassador's time and input.'
According to its Finance Ministry, Indonesia's economy, which is being driven more by domestic demand than exports, grew by 6.1 per cent last year and is estimated to expand 6.5 per cent in 2011.
Note
The Indonesia-China Investment Forum featured presentations by Vice Minister of Public Works of the Republic of Indonesia, Mr Hermanto Dardak, and senior officials from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources; the Ministry of Public Works; the national Development Planning Agency; and the Investment Coordinating Board of the Republic of Indonesia.
Ends
For further information, please contact:
- Susan CowenCommunications Coordinator,
Melbourne
Ph: +61 3 9613 8374
Susan.Cowen@allens.com.au
Notes for editors.
Allens Arthur Robinson has staff in 14 cities and eight countries across the Asia Pacific.