Indonesia and Vietnam have set an ambitious goal to boost bilateral trade to $18 billion by 2028, according to a joint agreement signed during the sixth session of the Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) in Jakarta. The deal was formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono and his Vietnamese counterpart, Le Hoai Trung. The agreement outlines a series of measures aimed at enhancing economic ties, including increasing trade and investment flows, eliminating trade barriers, and fostering closer collaboration between business communities in both nations. The announcement comes after a meeting held in Jakarta, where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to achieving the $18 billion trade target. According to Sugiono, the focus will be on producing concrete outcomes from existing bilateral agreements and memoranda of understanding. This includes efforts to enhance cooperation in areas such as agriculture, science and technology, the electric vehicle supply chain, and the digital economy. Additionally, the two countries plan to implement bilateral agreements concerning exclusive economic zones (EEZs) and improve defense and security cooperation in the maritime domain, while also working together to combat cross-border crimes, especially narcotics trafficking. Vietnamese Foreign Minister Le Hoai Trung expressed confidence that the trade target could be surpassed, citing the strong performance of Indonesia-Vietnam trade in recent years. He mentioned that the trade volume between the two countries had already approached $18 billion in the current year, suggesting that exceeding the 2028 target might be feasible. The ministers also emphasized the importance of improving connectivity to complement their growing trade and investment relationship. The agreement underscores the deepening economic partnership between Indonesia and Vietnam, which has been steadily growing over the past few years. Both nations have recognized the need to diversify their economic strategies and leverage each other’s strengths to foster sustainable growth. With Indonesia being one of the world’s largest archipelagos and Vietnam emerging as a key player in Southeast Asia’s manufacturing sector, the collaboration offers mutual benefits in terms of resource sharing, technological exchange, and market expansion. In parallel developments, Indonesia has been actively seeking international partners to support its energy transition goals. Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto recently invited Chinese companies to invest in the development of solar power plants with a combined capacity of 100 gigawatts. This initiative, spearheaded by President Prabowo Subianto, aims to bolster Indonesia's energy infrastructure and promote the development of a robust domestic supply chain for solar power technologies. Hartarto met with Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao in Shanghai, where they discussed ways to deepen bilateral cooperation beyond the energy sector. The two countries have maintained a strong trade relationship, with bilateral trade reaching $154.6 billion in 2025. Chinese investments in Indonesia have also grown significantly, contributing nearly $8.1 billion in foreign direct investment in 2025, primarily directed towards manufacturing, trade, energy, real estate, and logistics sectors. Both sides also explored opportunities under the Two Countries Twin Parks (TCTP) framework, which seeks to expand market access and balance bilateral trade. Discussions included plans to secure support for hosting the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Secretariat in Indonesia, highlighting the country's growing role in regional economic integration. As Indonesia continues to pursue its energy and industrial development goals, the nation is positioning itself as a hub for renewable energy and advanced manufacturing. These efforts align with broader regional trends toward economic diversification and sustainability, reflecting Indonesia's strategic vision for the future.
8 reports
Tempo (English)IndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 857 days ago Indonesia, Vietnam Set US$18bn Trade Target by 2028Indonesia and Vietnam have announced their goal to increase bilateral trade to $18 billion by 2028. The two countries aim to strengthen economic ties through increased cooperation in various sectors. This target reflects their commitment to expanding trade relations and enhancing regional economic integration. Both nations see this partnership as crucial for boosting their economies and reducing reliance on other trading partners.
Bias read (Center): The article reports on an economic agreement between two countries without taking a stance or showing bias toward either nation. It focuses purely on the stated trade target and does not include any framing that suggests favoritism or criticism.
Why factuality (90): This article clearly states the $18 billion trade target with Vietnam by 2028, aligning closely with the cross-source consensus. It provides context about the agreement and the areas of cooperation, making it highly factual.
Why objectivity (85): The article remains neutral in tone, reporting facts without showing preference towards either country involved in the agreement.
Antara NewsState / PublicCenterFactual 90Objective 857 days ago Indonesia, Vietnam target US$18 billion trade by 2028Indonesia and Vietnam have committed to increasing their bilateral trade to $18 billion by 2028, according to a memorandum of understanding signed during the 6th Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation meeting. The agreement involves boosting trade and investment, removing trade barriers, enhancing business interactions, and implementing existing bilateral agreements. The collaboration extends beyond economics to include maritime security, agriculture, technology, and digital economy initiatives. Both nations expressed confidence in surpassing the trade target, citing recent trade performance. The announcement follows related developments such as efforts to prevent the relocation of automotive firms to Vietnam and the establishment of a digital remittance system.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced report on the economic and strategic cooperation between Indonesia and Vietnam, focusing on trade targets, agreements, and mutual commitments. There is no overt ideological slant or emphasis on one side over the other. The framing remains neutral, presenting the goals
Why factuality (90): This article clearly states the $18 billion trade target with Vietnam by 2028, aligning closely with the cross-source consensus. It provides context about the MoU and the areas of cooperation, making it highly factual.
Why objectivity (85): The article remains neutral in tone, reporting facts without showing preference towards either country involved in the agreement.
Antara NewsState / PublicCenterFactual 90Objective 8513 days ago Ambassador of Kuwait hopes Indonesia-GCC FTA concluded by end of 2026Ambassador of Kuwait, Khalid Jassim Al-Yassin, expressed optimism that the Indonesia-Gulf Cooperation Council Free Trade Agreement (FTA) could be signed by the end of 2026 during his visit to Jakarta. He highlighted that negotiations have progressed smoothly and emphasized the potential benefits for trade and investment between Indonesia and Gulf countries. The FTA is expected to enhance economic cooperation in sectors such as energy, security, transportation, and raw materials, while also expanding collaboration in areas like investment, aviation, IT, education, and cultural exchanges. Al-Yassin noted Kuwait's reliance on food imports due to its arid climate and its significant oil exports to Asian markets, including Indonesia. During his visit, he also discussed strengthening media cooperation between ANTARA and the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA).
Bias read (Center): The article presents a neutral report on diplomatic discussions regarding the FTA between Indonesia and Kuwait. It provides factual statements from the Kuwaiti ambassador without overtly favoring either side. While the topic involves international trade agreements, which can be politically sensitive
Why factuality (90): The article accurately reports on the expected conclusion of the Indonesia-GCC FTA by the end of 2026, matching the cross-source consensus. It includes relevant details about the sectors of interest and the expectations of both sides.
Why objectivity (85): The article remains objective, presenting the information without taking sides or using biased language.
Antara NewsState / PublicCenterFactual 85Objective 804 days ago Indonesia invites Chinese investors to solar power plant projectsIndonesian Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto invited Chinese companies to invest in the development of solar power plants with a total capacity of 100 gigawatts, part of President Prabowo Subianto's energy transition plan aimed at completing the project by 2029. The invitation was made during a bilateral meeting with Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao in Shanghai. Hartarto emphasized the potential for Indonesia-China cooperation in clean energy and emission reduction, noting the existing solar panel industry could be expanded to build a more integrated domestic supply chain. Beyond energy, he highlighted China as Indonesia's largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching $154.6 billion in 2025 and Chinese investment totaling nearly $8.1 billion, mainly in manufacturing, trade, energy, and other sectors. Both sides also discussed enhancing cooperation through frameworks like the Two Countries Twin Parks (TCTP), improving market access, and supporting the RCEP Secretariat in Indonesia.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced overview of the economic and diplomatic engagement between Indonesia and China, focusing on mutual interests in energy development, trade, and investment. It does not take a clear ideological stance but rather reports on the strategic collaboration and economic data.
Why factuality (85): The article provides specific details about the 100 GW solar power target, the involvement of President Prabowo Subianto, and the figures related to trade and investment with China. These claims align with the cross-source consensus found in other articles, though some specifics like the exact date
Why objectivity (80): The article presents the information in a neutral tone, focusing on statements made by officials and providing data points without overt bias. However, it does highlight positive aspects of China-Indonesia relations, which could subtly influence perception.
Antara NewsState / PublicCenterFactual 80Objective 8510 days ago Indonesia secures 13 industrial MoUs at INNOPROM 2026Indonesia's Ministry of Industry has secured 13 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) during the INNOPROM 2026 industrial trade fair in Russia, aiming to boost industrial downstreaming, attract investment, and expand market access in Eurasia. The agreements involve cooperation with countries such as Armenia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, and Russian regions like Chelyabinsk, Kirov, and Sverdlovsk. The MoUs cover areas including trade, industrial development, supply chain integration, and technology transfer. These agreements include high-level frameworks between Indonesia and Russia, as well as targeted pacts with other nations and regions. The deals are intended to support strategic joint ventures in manufacturing, heavy equipment, metallurgy, and the halal industry.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of Indonesia's diplomatic and economic efforts in securing international agreements. It highlights the involvement of government officials and outlines the strategic goals of the agreements without overtly praising or criticizing the outcomes. The framing is客观
Why factuality (80): The article reports on Indonesia securing 13 industrial MoUs at INNOPROM 2026, which is consistent with the cross-source consensus. Specifics about the agreements and countries involved add to its credibility.
Why objectivity (85): The article presents the information objectively, focusing on the achievements and collaborations without showing favoritism or bias.
The Jakarta PostIndependentProgressiveFactual 75Objective 708 days ago Why EV makers choose Vietnam, not nickel-rich IndonesiaThe article discusses why electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers are choosing Vietnam over Indonesia, despite Indonesia's abundant nickel resources. It highlights factors such as lower production costs, favorable policies, and infrastructure development in Vietnam. The piece contrasts Vietnam's growing manufacturing sector with Indonesia's focus on raw material exports, suggesting that Indonesia may be missing opportunities to develop its own EV industry. The article raises concerns about Indonesia's ability to compete globally in the EV market if it does not invest more in domestic manufacturing capabilities.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames Indonesia's economic strategy as being overly focused on resource exports rather than industrial development, implying a lack of forward-thinking policy. This suggests a critique of current Indonesian government priorities, aligning with left-leaning perspectives that emphasize re
Why factuality (75): The article discusses why EV manufacturers prefer Vietnam over Indonesia despite Indonesia's nickel resources. While it raises valid questions, it lacks detailed evidence or quotes from industry experts, which reduces its factual reliability compared to other sources.
Why objectivity (70): The article leans slightly towards highlighting Indonesia's challenges rather than presenting a balanced view of both countries' advantages in the EV supply chain.
The Jakarta PostIndependentCenterFactual 70Objective 857 days ago Indonesia, Vietnam aim to increase trade, investment by 2028The article reports that Indonesia and Vietnam have set goals to boost trade and investment between the two countries by 2028. It highlights efforts to strengthen economic ties through enhanced cooperation and mutual growth strategies.
Bias read (Center): The article presents information about bilateral economic goals without overtly favoring any particular political ideology. It focuses on factual developments and shared objectives between the two nations, maintaining a balanced tone.
Why factuality (70): The article mentions the trade target with Vietnam but lacks specific details such as the $18 billion figure mentioned in other articles. This makes it less aligned with the cross-source consensus, reducing its factual score compared to others.
Why objectivity (85): The article maintains a balanced tone, presenting the goal of increasing trade and investment without taking sides or using emotionally charged language.
Tempo (English)IndependentCenterFactual 70Objective 8011 days ago Today's Top 3 News: Why Vietnam Revised Its Visa-Free Policy for IndonesiansVietnam has revised its visa-free policy for Indonesian citizens, which had previously allowed them to enter Vietnam without a visa. The change comes amid concerns over border management and security. Indonesia and Vietnam have been working closely on immigration policies to address issues such as illegal migration and document fraud. The revision aims to strengthen bilateral relations while ensuring proper control over cross-border movements. This update reflects ongoing efforts between the two countries to manage their shared borders more effectively.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual report on a policy change without overtly favoring any political side. It focuses on the reasons behind the revision and the collaborative efforts between Vietnam and Indonesia, maintaining a balanced tone.
Why factuality (70): The article touches on Vietnam revising its visa-free policy for Indonesians but lacks detailed explanations or background information, which affects its factual completeness relative to other sources.
Why objectivity (80): The article maintains a neutral stance, simply stating the revision of the policy without expressing any particular opinion or bias.
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