Heaptalk, Jakarta – Hong Kong is known for its strong capability in logistic industry perceiving its geographic condition, infrastructure, and also regulation. Based on the UN COMTRADE’s data, Hong Kong’s imports from Indonesia reached US$2.98 billion over 2023. Moreover, China occupies the first position with a contribution proportion of 30.31% of Indonesia’s total imports during January-March 2024 where HK is usually a strategic transit point. ACI (Airports Council International) even named Hong Kong air cargo as the first busiest cargo airport in the world in 2023.
By considering this fact, the logistics collaboration between Indonesia and Hong Kong is expected to present an exciting opportunity to leverage the strengths of both regions in Southeast Asia’s trade hub. With their strategic positioning, both regions can boost connectivity and trade in Asia, offering a competitive advantage through closer collaboration.
In order to drive collaboration, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) organized a seminar with the theme ‘Indonesia – Hong Kong Logistic Industry Collaboration & Global Opportunities’ at St. Regis, Jakarta (11/04).
Harry Sutanto, Vice Chairman ALFI ILFA, stated, “This initiative gives a positive sign about how importance the issue of logistics as a factor for the exchange of trade between Indonesia and Hong Kong and vice versa” (11/04).
He hoped this seminar can bring together the industry player to exchange market insights, discuss possibilities and explore new windows for collaboration.
“I name it not only Collaboration, but “CollaborACTION”, stated Harry in his opening remarks.
According to CEO Hyper Mega Shipping, Ms. Reef, during the seminar, Hong Kong is famous for its strategic role in connecting the world and its harbour has a very advanced and efficient infrastructure for loading and unloading facilities.
Align with Ms. Reef’s statement, Nova Triana, Area Cargo Manager Indonesia Cathay Pacific Airways, stated Hong Kong has potential with more than 4.3 million tonnes of cargo per year, having three runway systems operational by the end of 2024, and 50% of the world’s population within 5 hours of flying time from Hong Kong Hub.
Furthermore, Mr. Hillwan Yogi Brahmanda, Head of Investment Promotion, Invest HK explained the ease in Hong Kong in terms of taxes compared to other countries, financially, and infrastructure, has sophisticated system because Hong Kong is currently focused on innovation and technology.
The development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao GBA (Greater Bay Area) also has become part of China’s national strategy. Hillwan mentioned that the GBA is one of the areas with the highest economic level in China. There are also many UHNWIs (Ultra High Net Worth Individuals) living there, making this area an area that continues to experience promising business development.
Meanwhile, Ms. Chloe Deng, Director, Public Affairs – International Business, Cainiao, stated the Indonesian market has potential, especially in the cosmetics industry, herbal medicine, Muslim clothing, and other goods in the Chinese market that do not yet exist. Considering this potential, she hopes to conduct business cooperation with entrepreneurs in Indonesia.
To bridge the potential of Indonesia and Hong Kong, the seminar was organized to drive cooperation and open investment opportunities in both countries.
Besides discussing potential of logistics sector, HMS CEO Ms. Reef also highlighted the importance of implementing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principle in this industry. According to Ms. Reef, green logistics should be applied to foster a stronger logistics network. This initiative is in line with HMS’ mission to contribute to socio-economic development and regional prosperity.
