Spain eyes Indonesia investment to tap wider export markets

Wednesday, 30 September 2026

Spain is showing interest in investing in Indonesia as it looks for a way to reach wider export markets. Indonesia’s large domestic market is certainly attractive, but its network of trade agreements could be an even bigger reason for Spanish investors to look closer at the country.

Indonesia’s Trade Minister Budi Santoso said Spanish representatives had expressed strong interest in investing in Indonesia after learning about the country’s export opportunities. The interest is connected to Indonesia’s access to several international markets through different trade agreements.

For Spanish companies, this could be an interesting opportunity. Instead of using Indonesia only as a market for selling products, companies could potentially use the country as a production base for reaching customers in other parts of the world.

Indonesia Offers Access to Many Markets

One of Indonesia’s advantages is its network of trade agreements. According to the Trade Minister, Indonesia has preferential trade agreements (PTAs), free trade agreements (FTAs), and comprehensive economic partnership agreements (CEPAs) with 30 countries.

These agreements can make international trade easier for companies operating in Indonesia. Depending on the agreement and product, businesses can benefit from better market access and more competitive trading conditions.

This is one reason Spain is looking at Indonesia as a possible investment destination. Spanish companies can potentially produce goods in Indonesia and then explore opportunities to export them to markets across Asia, Europe, and other regions.

Textile Industry Could Be an Opportunity

The textile industry is one sector that could receive attention from Spanish investors. Budi said Spanish investors were likely to consider building textile factories in Indonesia.

The European market has strong demand for clothing, garments, and footwear. By establishing production facilities in Indonesia, Spanish companies could potentially take advantage of Indonesia’s manufacturing capabilities while also looking at export opportunities.

For Indonesia, investment in the textile sector could also bring wider economic activity. New factories can create jobs, require local suppliers, and support other businesses connected to manufacturing and logistics.

¿Por qué Indonesia?

Indonesia has become an interesting destination for companies that want to combine production with access to international markets. Its large population provides a domestic market, while its position in Southeast Asia can also provide connections to other economies.

For foreign companies, having both options can be useful. A factory in Indonesia does not necessarily have to depend only on local consumers. It can potentially serve customers in several countries, depending on trade rules and business strategies.

The Indonesian government is also trying to make the investment environment more attractive. Budi said the government remains committed to reviewing licensing regulations as part of its efforts to encourage foreign investment.

A Wider Opportunity for Spain

Spain’s interest shows that international companies are looking at Indonesia not only as a consumer market but also as a potential production and export hub.

For Spanish businesses, investment in Indonesia could provide a chance to reach wider markets while taking advantage of the country’s trade agreements. For Indonesia, meanwhile, Spanish investment could support manufacturing, employment, and export activity.

The interest is still an investment opportunity rather than confirmation that major Spanish projects have already been established. The next step will depend on how discussions between Spanish investors and Indonesian authorities develop.