China
Strengthening Economic Relations Between China and Indonesia: Exploring Trade and Investment Prospects
Indonesia emphasizes green and digital economic development, investing in renewable energy and healthcare. China, its largest trading partner, accounted for 25.24% of Indonesia’s trade in 2022. Although trade declined in 2023, optimism remains for growth in 2024.
The Indonesian government prioritizes the development of emerging sectors such as the green economy and digital economy. Leveraging its natural resources, consumer potential, and labor force, Indonesia has significantly increased its investment and support in renewable energy, electric vehicles, high-value-added downstream mining industries, electronic communications, and healthcare.
Given the complementary strengths of China and Indonesia in resources, production capacity, technological innovation, markets, and industrial chains, there is vast potential for further economic and trade cooperation between the two nations.
As of 2022, China has consistently been Indonesia’s largest trading partner for 10 consecutive years. According to official statistics, China-Indonesia trade accounted for 25.24 percent of Indonesia’s total trade in 2022. China has also been Indonesia’s largest source of imports for 13 consecutive years, with imports from China making up 28.52 percent of Indonesia’s total imports in 2022. Additionally, China has been Indonesia’s largest export destination for seven consecutive years, with exports to China comprising 22.58 percent of Indonesia’s total exports in 2022.
According to Chinese customs statistics, the total trade volume between China and Indonesia reached US$149.09 billion in 2022, a year-on-year increase of 19.8 percent. Of this, China’s exports to Indonesia amounted to US$71.32 billion, up 17.8 percent, while imports from Indonesia totaled US$77.77 billion, up 21.7 percent.
Despite a slight decline in China-Indonesia trade in 2023, with bilateral trade amounting to US$139.42 billion, down 5.9 percent year-on-year, China remains Indonesia’s largest trading partner. This decline is attributed to global commodity price adjustments. The Indonesian Ministry of Trade (Kemendag) is optimistic that exports to China will increase in 2024 due to the government’s efforts to optimize the Two Countries, Twin Parks (TCTP) cooperation project and China’s continued role as a major trade partner, contributing nearly a quarter of Indonesia’s total exports.
Source: General Administration of Customs, China
This article was first published by China Briefing , which is produced by Dezan Shira & Associates. The firm assists foreign investors throughout Asia from offices across the world, including in in China, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Singapore, and India . Readers may write to info@dezshira.com for more support. |
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Business
US Enacts New Investment Restrictions on AI and Semiconductor Technologies in China
The US has implemented regulations restricting investments in key technology sectors in China, citing national security risks, particularly concerning AI and semiconductors, following President Biden’s previous executive order.
US Investment Restrictions on Key Technology Sectors
The United States has implemented new regulations that restrict investments in crucial technology sectors in China, including artificial intelligence and semiconductors, driven by national security concerns. The Treasury Department’s announcement marks a significant change in the US stance on foreign investment in critical technologies.
Effective January 2, US citizens, residents, and companies will be barred from transactions involving advanced technologies. Investors must also alert the Treasury about investments in less advanced technologies that pose potential national security risks, reflecting a broader approach to safeguarding American interests.
These restrictions stem from growing worries about China’s technological capabilities and military applications. The move follows President Biden’s previous executive order to prevent US investments from unintentionally benefiting adversaries. As tensions rise, these regulations are expected to impact the global tech industry significantly.
Source : US implements new investment restrictions on AI and semiconductors in China
Business
China Real Estate: Sunac’s Luxury Apartments in Shanghai Sell Out in Just 3 Hours
China’s property market is recovering, with all 158 luxury units at Sunac China’s One Sino Park in Shanghai sold in three hours, generating 5.88 billion yuan, amid new government stimulus measures.
Signs of Recovery in China’s Property Market
China’s property market shows signs of recovery as Beijing implements measures to revitalize the sector. Recently, buyers flocked to a luxury residential project in Shanghai, indicating renewed interest in real estate.
Successful Sale of One Sino Park Units
The third batch of Sunac China Holdings’ One Sino Park sold all 158 units within three hours, generating ¥5.88 billion (US$825.8 million). This follows the successful sales of the project’s previous phases, totaling ¥21.5 billion. The luxurious flats in the Huangpu district were priced at ¥172,000 (US$24,150) per square meter, attracting double the number of interested buyers compared to available units.
Investor Perspectives on Real Estate
Shanghai resident Sun, who purchased a sizable apartment, expressed satisfaction in securing an asset that can “maintain its value.” He noted that current market conditions make home buying a more sensible investment compared to other options like the stock market.
Source : China property: Sunac’s Shanghai luxury flats sell out in 3 hours
China
Cuba Becomes a Focal Point in US–China Rivalry
China is developing advanced listening posts in Cuba, intensifying US-China geopolitical tensions. The strengthened China-Cuba ties raise concerns among US policymakers, hinting at Cuba as a potential conflict flashpoint.
China’s Developments in Cuba
China is reportedly establishing advanced listening posts in Cuba, stirring concerns over rising tensions between Beijing and Washington amidst their ongoing geopolitical rivalry. As Cuba strengthens its ties with China and Russia, U.S. policymakers become increasingly apprehensive. Cuba’s proximity, less than 150 kilometers from the United States, positions it as a potential flashpoint in future conflicts.
In a July 2024 report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies, evidence suggested that China is progressing with its espionage capabilities on the island. Although both the U.S. and Chinese governments dismissed the report to avoid escalating tensions, the likelihood of deepening China-Cuba relations remains high for various geopolitical reasons, enhancing the complexity of the international landscape reminiscent of a new Cold War.
Historically, China and Cuba share a multifaceted relationship rooted in ideological compatibility but driven by economic necessities. After Fidel Castro took power in 1959, U.S. economic embargoes hampered progress, incentivizing reliance on allies like the Soviet Union, which provided substantial financial support. Meanwhile, China contended with its own internal challenges but has since been proactive in the Caribbean, indicating a strategic pivot that may further complicate U.S.-China relations.