Fact Sheet

Doing business in Indonesia: A cultural guide

Indonesia, the Southeast Asian island country, has around 260 million inhabitants, which makes the market potential enormous. With the free trade agreement signed on 16 December 2018 the Indonesian market offers Swiss exporters exciting opportunities. Before doing business in Indonesia, it is good to familiarize yourself with cultural norms and the local business etiquette. Here’s what you need the know!

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A free trade agreement & huge market potential

The country is the largest economic power in the Southeast Asian region and its middle class continues to grow. Due to the large population and the rapidly growing middle class, however, the country has a high economic potential. About 150 Swiss companies are already active in Indonesia. Thanks to the free trade agreement 98% of Swiss exports to Indonesia, the fourth most populous country in the world, will be exempt from customs duties over the coming years, providing great opportunities to Swiss exporters.

Factsheet: Doing business in Indonesia – a cultural guide

Before doing business in Indonesia, it is important to get to know cultural norms and business principles. Indonesians are known for their hospitality and friendliness, so it is important to be polite and patient trying to avoid any sorts of disapproval or conflict. But did you know, that Indonesians appreciate a little small talk before a meeting?

Learn more about the Indonesian main economic attributes, business etiquette and cultural norms in our factsheet below!  

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